Book Of German Suicide Notes Becomes Bestseller

The Times: Suicide notes become a bestseller

"A remarkable anthology of suicide letters is fast becoming a Christmas bestseller in Germany, signalling a new fascination and openness about a centuries-old taboo.

Although the book, Ich möchte jetzt schließen (Let me finish) is not exactly a typical stocking filler, it fits into a trend that is gripping Europe.

the anthology, compiled by Udo Grashoff, a medical historian, is not a sensationalist gimmick and for many readers is providing real insights into the act of suicide.

The article details a few of the notes included in the book. Here's one: -

A 28-year-old fireman tried to slit his wrists, then to hang himself and finally set himself on fire. He wrote the times of each stage of his staggered death in his suicide note: 9.00, 9.30, 9.45 and finally 13.00 hours. In fact, he died from his wounds nine days later.

At least he was more successful than this guy.