ABSTRACT
Death and dying create tensions; humor serves to release tensions, and so there is a strong connection between the two. The sociological study of humor has highlighted its significant role in social life, and so this chapter draws links between tears and laughter. We also explore the important role that music and art can play in coming to terms with impending end of life and coping with grief. These issues serve as a counterbalance to clinical and scientific approaches that can be perceived as lacking the depth of humanity that is needed to understand what is happening when people face death and bereavement.
