The Trees Lining the Road to Death

The explosions in Kerman took place on a picturesque road that connects the city's living to their dead.

Source: AFP/Getty Images

I was very young when I lost my paternal grandfather. I have vague memories of perching on his lap when I was 3 or 4 years old, enchanted by the array of tricks and toys that he used to amuse me. He died shortly thereafter, though his presence cast a signifiant influence in my life as I grew up.