“The Tomb Attendant Contemplates His Own Death,” by Matthew Shenoda

The New Yorker

by Matthew Shenoda

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Matthew Shenoda's poem *“The Tomb Attendant Contemplates His Own Death”* explores themes of mortality, duty, and legacy through the intimate perspective of a tomb attendant reflecting on his own impending death. The narrator contemplates his role in preserving history while grappling with his personal aspirations and fears, creating a poignant dialogue between tradition and individual desire. By blending ancient Egyptian imagery with contemporary existential musings, Shenoda crafts a meditation on life's fragility and the search for meaning in the face of death. The poem juxtaposes the quiet routine of attending to sacred duties with the profound weight of contemplating one's own mortality. The narrator finds solace in the beauty of art and the care of his children, yet is haunted by the idea of being sealed away in silence, separated from loved ones and witnesses to his story. Through vivid imagery—like the "crescent boat" pulled from the shore and the "everlasting" adorned future—the poem captures the tension between the permanence of legacy and the fleeting nature of life. Shenoda's work invites readers to reflect on universal questions about how we balance tradition with personal fulfillment, and what it means to leave a lasting impact. The blend of historical allusions with modern introspection makes the poem resonate with anyone exploring themes of identity, mortality, and the human condition. Its rich imagery and emotional depth offer a unique lens into cultural perspectives on life and death, making it a compelling read for those interested in literature's power to illuminate the human experience.

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/23/2026