The First Time You Die

By Anthony Trendl

The First Time You Die

The short story “The First Time You Die” is Anthony Trendl’s first work of literary fiction. Read the related blog post.


Being dead isn’t what you think. There are rules.

Louis Copland has been dead over 50 years, and he is on hand to give the newly deceased Roger Aldridge, a “freshie,” a tour of their cemetery. Who’s who in the yard, the rules about their present situation, and a strong warning about the gate.

In the cemetery is one big city mayor, a reluctant saint, and more than a few criminals. One thing that’s hard to find is the truth.

Roger can’t talk, and Louis has a lot to say. Is this the beginning of a beautiful friendship?

The short story “The First Time You Die” is unlike any tale you’ve read, and ready to challenge your thoughts about life, death, and all that’s after. Buy now.

“You’re dead. We can see each other and talk to each other and that’s it. People will come and go and they’ll never see you. In fact, most of the time, you won’t see them. If you do, they’ll be wispy, vague breezes of wind. I’ve been here 50 years and I can count on three hands how many people I think I’ve seen. I’m not really sure I’ve seen anyone.”

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