So You Want to Be In the New York Times (But, Like, for the Last Time)**
Let's face it, nobody aspires to be in an obituary. But hey, if you're reading this, you're probably tasked with writing one for a dearly departed loved one (or maybe planning your own epic exit, in which case, kudos for your morbid pre-planning). The good news is, getting into the hallowed halls of the New York Times obituaries isn't quite as exclusive as scoring a Met Gala invite. The bad news? It's not exactly a cakewalk either.
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| How Do I Submit An Obituary To The New York Times |
First Things First: Newsworthy or "News to Us"?
The New York Times obituaries are known for being these fascinating mini-biographies of people who've left their mark on the world. World leaders? Check. Cultural icons? Absolutely. That neighbor who baked a mean pie and always remembered your birthday? Maybe not (but seriously, that was a good pie).
Here's the thing: your loved one doesn't have to have cured cancer to deserve a proper send-off. Did they heroically chase a rogue squirrel out of your attic? Did they have a collection of porcelain thimbles that would make Marie Kondo weep? These details, while seemingly mundane, can paint a beautiful picture of a life well-lived.
Basically, focus on what made them special, unique, and, dare we say, a little bit quirky.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Crafting Your Ode to Uncle Fred
So you've got the green light (metaphorically speaking) on a New York Times obituary. Now comes the writing. Here are some tips to turn tears into a tribute:
- Don't be afraid of humor! Unless Uncle Fred was a notorious prankster who once filled the town fountain with Jello (in which case, go for it!), a touch of humor can make the obituary even more heartwarming.
- Show, don't tell. Instead of saying "He loved to fish," tell the story of the time he wrestled a catfish the size of a small child.
- Quotes are your friend. Let your loved one's personality shine through with a favorite saying or a funny anecdote.
Remember, this isn't just an obituary, it's a celebration of a life!
Submitting Your Masterpiece
Now you've crafted a tearjerker (with a few laughs sprinkled in). Here's how to get it into the paper:
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
- The New York Times doesn't accept directly submitted obituaries. You'll need to go through a funeral home or a third-party service like Legacy.com. These services can help you format your obituary and submit it for review.
- There are fees involved. The cost depends on the length of the obituary and the placement (print vs. online).
- Be prepared to wait. The New York Times gets a lot of obituary submissions, so it can take a few days for them to review yours.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered (Briefly)
How to write a funny obituary?
Focus on the quirky! But remember, respect the departed first, laughter second.
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How long can an obituary in the New York Times be?
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
Obituaries typically range from 100 to 200 words.
How much does it cost to place an obituary in the New York Times?
Costs vary depending on length and placement, but expect to pay several hundred dollars.
QuickTip: Pay close attention to transitions.
How long does it take to get an obituary approved?
It can take a few days for the New York Times to review your submission.
How can I make sure my obituary gets into the New York Times?
There's no guarantee, but a well-written and newsworthy obituary with a little human touch goes a long way.
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