All Saints’ Day: announcements, a tradition that is renewing itself

The traditions vary to honor the deceased, but the most essential remains the obituary in the press since the 17th century. Some are artistic or filled with humor, obituaries have become a veritable literary genre depicting the emotions of life. “We have lots of formulas that allow us to avoid a word considered taboo, the word death”, explains Denis Cosnard, writer and journalist at Le Monde.

The announcements continue to be a hit with the families of the missing. The funeral directors still offer this service, faced with a demand which does not weaken. “Paper announcements are important for families because they show attention to those around them”, launches Franck Vasseur, member of the company Autre rive. However, the use of paper has been divided by three in favor of start-ups which offer sites in partnership with the written press. A variation of the invitation that remains in vogue, despite its age.