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The Documentary: A short history of sadness

A short history of sadness

28/01/2023 GMT

BBC World Service - The Documentary, A short history of sadness

Author Helen Russell explores a history of gloom, and how different cultures tackle it

Author Helen Russell explores a history of gloom, and how different cultures tackle it.

How do humans cope with sadness? Is it something to be avoided at all costs or part of the human condition? Should we dwell on our sadness, or flee from it? Author Helen Russell explores humanity's history of gloom, and the cultural differences in our approach to tackling it.

Helen goes to Lisbon to explore their relationship with melancholy,  communicated through a uniquely mournful genre of music called Fado, and an untranslatable word "saudade". She learns about the service which sends a handsome man to wipe away tears in Japan, and hears about joy, sadness and mourning with a Ghanian poet.

Presenter: Helen Russell
Producer: Ailsa Rochester

(Photo: Fadista Natalino De Jesus performs at A Severa Fado House, in Lisbon Portugal. Credit: Ailsa Rochester)

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