CMP Review 2025-11-22

November 22, 2025

We spent last week “death cleaning” our dad’s home. This week, I’ve begun my own.

Death cleaning is the Swedish term döstädning in which one’s house is put in order. It can take place either before or after we die. Rather than being sad, it’s a time to reflect on the story our things tell about our life, our legacy, a chance to rid oneself of clutter and make our homes more enjoyable, as well as a way to ease the burden on our relatives when we die.

Margareta Magnusson has written a brilliant little book on it full with big ideas. While there are workbooks, videos, and other practical books on the subject aimed at Westerners, Ms. Magnusson gets at the philosophy—the heart of the matter—while guiding you in the act. Think of it as trying to employ Charlotte Mason’s methods without the foundation of her underlying principles.

The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning is a short read that will keep one thinking (and laughing) for days afterward. If you prefer audiobook, there’s one narrated by the ineffable Juliet Stevenson—just be aware that you’ll miss the author’s whimsical illustrations.

@rbaburina