To the editor:
On Sunday June 9, 2025, I attended a performance by Alison Larkin related to her one-woman show, and now her new book, “Grief… a Comedy.”
We sat outside the Unicorn chatting and waiting for the curtain call. It was a lovely afternoon. Kate McGuire opened the Unicorn free of charge for the event, and the proceeds went to support the Stockbridge Library. Then bell rang and we filed in.
More than one person told me they had seen her show before. What brings them back? When it is over, what brings an audience to its feet? If I knew, I would be a “play doctor” on Broadway. I don’t know, but I can share a guess.
In comedy, there is tragedy at the heart of the joke. The laugh line makes talking about the sadness bearable. Alison’s beloved Bhima died at 54 years old; so did my big sister and best friend. The beloved wife of the man who raised his hand and thanked Alison at the end of the show also died too young. We come back because we want to talk about it, and in our country of jolly deniers and factually unsupported optimism, we are grateful to Alison for allowing it, encouraging it, and guiding the visit to it.
There is a bit more… Alison is absolutely genuine and completely present. Underlying the wit, the wisdom, and the willingness to face the macabre, she shows her vulnerability and her strength simultaneously.
You missed the performance, but you can get the book, “Grief… a Comedy.” Here is a plan: Buy the book, read it, loan it to a pal, then have lunch and discuss it.
I close with a random thought: Odd hearing Alison say from the stage what was the watchword of my family: “You cannot control what happens, but you can control how you react to it.” — “Grief… a Comedy.”
Carole Owens
Stockbridge
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