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If you had only one day left, how would you spend it — and what would you deliberately avoid?
OS
Omid Safi

Professor of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Duke University

Recorded said elsewhere, not written here
The rest of that night is a feverish blur. I asked to talk to my mom; had a slice of chocolate cake; prayed. I remember waking up every few hours and seeing my mother praying by my bedside, then every nurse in the hospital, and then every cleaning staff member who loved my father for his kindness toward them throughout the years — all praying for me.

On Being column, 7 February 2018 source ↗

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David Macklovitch Musician and singer; one half of Chromeo
I would go and record a bunch of stuff. I would just go and record every single idea that I have in my head and have Pat (Gemayel, bandmate) finish them, giving him very strict guidelines, which is what I do anyway. This is so we can have a couple of albums out after I’ve passed away, Tupac style.
Recorded Clash, Last Day On Earth, 1 December 2009 source ↗
Black Francis Singer, songwriter and guitarist; lead vocalist of Pixies
Primping mostly. It’s Sophia Loren! So I would clean up a bit and the first thing I would check are my toenails. I would have a full shave and make sure I had moisturised everywhere. Of course I’d make sure I smell nice too, but not overly perfumed. I think after cleaning and steaming and bathing and primping, I would like to do a bit of exercise – or maybe the steam bath would be enough – to bring out my natural body odour, that fresh, manly scent.
Recorded Clash, Last Day On Earth, 16 April 2010 source ↗
Paul Smith Singer and songwriter; lead singer of Maxïmo Park
I enjoy writing songs at home, so I would like to record an album on my last day. It would probably be a fairly melancholy, stripped-down record with just me and my guitar.
Recorded Clash, Swan Song, 9 April 2014 source ↗
Jean-Benoît Dunckel Musician; one half of Air
I would make love all night. I don’t think I’d like to drink any alcohol or take any drugs because it cuts you off from reality and I would like to be really present and conscious during my last day on Earth.
Recorded Clash, Last Day On Earth, 19 February 2010 source ↗

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