Definition and history
He is perhaps the most recognized entity of all time, neither ghost nor god; the Grim Reaper is a psychopomp who’s job is to conduct the souls of the recently dead into the afterlife. He is often depicted as a tall pale skeletal figure shrouded in a long, dark, black hooded cloak wielding a scythe which he uses to harvest souls with, although some accounts say he just touches the person to pop their soul so they don’t feel pain when they die. When he moves, he seemingly glides rather than walking.
The Grim Reaper is known for not saying much, always having a grin on his face, and of course being the main focus of attention in whatever room he is in. He is able to turn his head completely around a la Linda Blair so that he can survey his domain; The Reaper must be vigilant lest someone try to cheat him.
The Grim Reaper can teach us much. He serves as a reminder that life is short and to make the best of every day (eat dessert first and dance now), to cut away the dead wood and move ahead. The Grim Reaper also reminds us to care for our dearly departed. Go to the cemetery and care and lovelying tend a grave; go to a funernal and speak. Remember those you miss, however painful. You can be a king or street sweeper, but everybody dances with the Grim Reaper
