On May 18th and 19th, Atlas Obscura and the Obscura Society Philly will host two lectures that speak concisely of their shared mission to turn a spotlight n compelling topics that dance on the fringes of society. The first of these will be "Don't Fear the Reaper," a rumination on mortality from Dr. Paul Koudounaris that will utilize cultural anthropology to present examples of why death isn't exactly the big bad we make it out to be -- so apologies to fans of Depeche Mode's "Fly on the Windscreen." Conversely, Dr. Koudounaris' speech "Nautical Cats. Adventure, Courage, and Betrayal!" has the potential to become a sentient Decemberists song by presenting"stories of wily sea cats who traveled the world, fought in battles, won medals, and gained honor, all on the high seas." The through line here remains, as always, that the world is a much more fascinating place than it seems -- you've just got to know where to look. In this case, Fishtown, as both of these talks will go down at the Convent, which seems suitable obscure enough in itself.

"Don't Fear The Reaper" will be held on Wednesday, May 18th at 7pm. "Nautical Cats. Adventure, Courage, and Betrayal!" will be held on Thursday, May 19th at 7pm. Lectures are $12 each. The Convent, 1648 East Berks Street.