The poem’s title, “What the Living Do,” forces the reader to consider its inverse. If driving to the grocery store is what the living do, what do the dead do instead? Howe implicitly explores this existential question throughout the poem, juxtaposing John’s death and absence with her own life and presence. There is no indication as to whether Howe or the poem’s speaker believes in an afterlife, though the form of the poem as a letter implies the possibility of communication amongst the realms. This poetic device asserts that figuratively, the living and the dead are in constant dialogue. The speaker takes solace in sharing her reflections with Johnny, despite his absence. The poem’s conclusion, “I remember you” (Line 16), suggests that what the dead do is get remembered. They certainly don’t deal with the trivial inconveniences of the living. Rather, they inform the actions, beliefs, and emotions of the living.

As a sibling and close friend, John had a profound impact on Howe, which continues after his death. Johnny lives on not only in the speaker’s memory, but in her daily routines and attitudes. Johnny’s death also provides the speaker with a greater sense of awareness and gratitude for her own life.