Question

What does this phrase mean: “Death is a dignitary who when he comes announced is to be received with formal manifestations of respect, even by those most familiar with him. In the code of military etiquette silence and fixity are forms of deference.”

Answer 1

The phrase means that death is an event to be respectful about, even by those for whom it is something usual. When it is expected or foreseeable, it has to be accepted in silence and firmly, as it is established by etiquette rules of social behavior.

Answer 2

sign of respect or courtesy for another's position