For author Susan Evans, "writing personal essays is a cathartic experience," one that does its job by "lightening my load." As you read this collection of essays--her second, after YOU HAVE TO LAUGH: RIFFS ON AGING--funny, tragic, ctingey, nostalgic, wise, and occasionally whiny, you will feel your load lightening as well. RANDOM RIFFS ON A LONG LIFE is for anyone in the latter half of life who agrees that while growing old can be terrifying, it can also be pretty funny--that is, if you learn to look for the light in the dark.