We Could Die Doing This

"We Could Die Doing: Dispatches on Ageing from Oregon's Outback," is a compilation of short essays focused on topics related to ageing in poignant and humorous ways. Ellen Waterston's book seeks to reveal and discuss stereotypes about ageing as well as how to deal with ageing in today's youth-obsessed culture. As renowned poet Judith Barrington states, "Most of us, whether of that 'certain age' or simply ap­proaching it, need to listen to her thoughts on the joyful possibilities of 'the third act'; she believes that 'this phase of life is as rich, complex and dynam­ic as any before it.'" Waterston addresses a wide-ranging array of subjects including managing technology, green burial, politics during holiday events, social isolation, senior sex!, and a firm salute to enjoying the "third act" of life. All while circumnavigating the usual euphemisms used to describe ageing and its attendant issues. Waterston uses her own experience as a "woman of a certain age," and highlighting the joyful possibilities, rather than the limitations of ageing. Waterston, a celebrated creative and gifted writer, currently serving a two-year term as Oregon Poet Laureate, is exceptionally qualified to offer both wisdom and data on the subject of ageing. She does not paint a rose-colored glow on her topic, but, as reviewer Andrea Carlisle stated, "does not shrink back from the beauty, refreshment, and welcome challenge of it either."