It is hard to believe that Six Feet Under's prodigal-narcissist, Nate [1], is really dead (Episode 61):
In the hours following Nate's death from a brain hemorrhage, David copes with his pain by planning his brother's funeral. He explains to Brenda and Ruth that Nate wanted a green funeral with no embalming or casket, just burial in a plot of land that's protected by a nature preserve.
Ironically (isn't it fun to use "ironically" inappropriately), soon after Nate's green burial (I cried), the NYTimes has a story on eco-friendly burials.
What is good about going green before you go? It can be cheaper: no embalming, no casket, very natural:
Those opting for eco-burial at Fernwood can buy coffins made of wicker or bamboo, shrouds in a hemp-silk blend and soon, $5,000 "Eco-pods" - a British import made from recycled newspapers and non-toxic glue meant to be a cross between a sarcophagus and a seed pod.
But there are tradeoffs, it costs more to preserve that little perfect spot where you can always be with the birds and trees:
... eco-interment, also known as an "easement," can cost upward of $15,000 for a prime plot or as little as a few hundred dollars for a scattering of ashes.
My fav:
"It's about taking responsibility, leaving the campground cleaner than when you left it," he said. "It's about being a Prius instead of a Hummer."
And there is no in-between.
[1] Nate experienced a brain hemorrhage shortly after intimate relations with his step sister, Maggie, while his pregnant wife, Brenda, waited for them at the Quaker Friends Meeting. What will fill the void when this show soon ends?
