Surviving the storm : literary journalistic accounts of coping with grief

Abstract

The researcher observed and conducted in-depth interviews with three individuals who have experienced various types of grief. To supplement this immersion reporting, the researcher conducted extensive background research on the literature of grief, which enhanced the interview process. The use of expository material and empathetic questioning enabled subjects to recall emotions or reactions when discussing their experiences. Counselors, therapists, and grief experts were consulted to gain insights into the grieving process and to interpret the three personal accounts. As a work of literary journalism, the researcher employed narrative writing techniques, where feasible, to dramatize factual material.