The wake derives (I believe) from the party after someone had died
To make sure they were in fact dead, the deceased's family and friends would make as much noise, and party as much as possible for 24 hours. If they didn't wake up, then it was safe to bury them, and they've had a good send off.
If they wake up, then huzzah, even more reason to continue the party.
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LemonEntryMyDearWatson This time, Moriarty, the hand is on the other foot, Thu 29 Jan 2009, 11:54,
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Unless of course all the loud noise and activity causes the "assumed" deceased
to have a heart attack..... In which case you allready have a coffin handy, and a room booked for the wake :)
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The magic of chutney Shakes it like an Instagram filter!, Thu 29 Jan 2009, 14:38,
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