Having watched a family member slowly fade away unto death, I believe Henry Peach Robinson's photo, Fading Away, fully encapsulates the emotions that surround the event. From what I've read, the girl in white is succumbing to consumption, what we now know as tuberculosis, and her family has gathered around her for her final moments. Her mother stays close, fluffing her pillows as if wanting to make sure her daughter is completely comfortable during this passing. What appears to be a grandmother sits at the feet of the girl, holding a book. Perhaps she was wanting to read to her granddaughter one last time. As for the father, he simply cannot bear to look at her, because he does not want to believe that she is truly dying. Either that, or he is trying to hide his grief and despair from his family so they don't think he is weak or has lost hope.
Overall, the photograph is a heart-rending one, and the black and white of the photo shows the sense of grim solemnity and sorrow that the family feels. Though they are surrounded by rich fabrics and luxurious furniture, none of their wealth can save their daughter, and she already looks to be an angel dressed in white, ready for her ascension.
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