In The Embalming of Mr. Jones, Jessica Mitford reveals an in-depth look into the embalming practices of the funeral industry. As a long tradition, the relatives would view the process of embalming within the deceased’s home. However, funeral directors have slowly relocated the embalming to funeral homes and discouraged the relatives from attending. Mitford postulates if American were to know the funeral industry’s practices, American would reject the services. Therefore, it is in the best financial interest of the funeral industry to shroud their practices in secrecy.

Mitford discusses the terminology that embalmers use to refer to themselves, “dermasurgeon.” Mitford further states the title was positively corrupted to “demisurgeon.” These embalmer utilizes multiple medical tools, such as scissors and forceps, and chemicals to successfully embalm. Mitford expresses her disdain by stating the tools and techniques used are crude compared to a proper surgeon. Many different types of chemical are for specific uses. A vast array of cosmetic products and aid are used in dressing the body. John Eckels, president of the Eckels College of Mortuary Science, explained the process would take a short amount of time in skilled hands. No matter how damaged the bodies are, the bodies can be restored into a resemblance of normalcy.

First, the embalmer drains the blood from Mr. Jones’s body through one of the arteries. Each embalmer has their own favorite artery to work with. Embalming fluid is pumped through the now empty artery. The embalmer has a range of preserving fluids to choose from depending on his desired effect. Condemning the amount of chemicals used, Mitford detailed the brand names of each chemical used. Mr. Jones’s mouth is carefully sewn shut. A trocar is stabbed into the body’s abdomen, replacing the innards with cavity fluids. This completes the embalming process, the body is left undisturbed for 8-10 hours for the tissue to become firm and dried. After time passes, restoration work can begin. If the body is missing any parts, the embalmer can utilize products such as Plaster of Paris to replace the missing limb. In additional to missing limbs, decapitated heads can be joined to its body by various wires and sutures. If the body is emaciated, the embalmer uses massage cream to inject and fill out areas of the body. The lips are difficult to work; Mitford takes care to explain the length that embalmers will work for natural-looking lips. A copious amount of paste and cream can fix skin discoloration. With the embalming and restoration complete, Mr. Jones is now cleaned, washed, and dressed. If the person never manicured his nails before, relatives would not question the manicure because it gives the decreased a better appearance.

The final step is casketing, the practice of positioning the body within a casket. For a lifelike and relaxed appearance, the positioning of the hands and shoulders are important. The body is moved into a “slumber room” for the final preparation for the viewing. Finally, a cherished item of the deceased is placed by their side. Mitford ultimately shocks the reader by revealing the age of Mr. Jones. In conclusion, Mitford’s essay shines a glaring spotlight on the little-known funeral practices.

Works Cited
Mitford, Jessica. "The Embalming of Mr. Jones." Patterns for College Writing: A Rhetorical Reader and Guide. Macmillan, 2011. 303-308. Print.