Someone’s Kid: Writing About Parenthood

They f–k you up, your mum and dad.
They may not mean to, but they do.

–Philip Larkin

"In this five-week class, students are invited to come with open hearts to explore what parenting means to them," says instructor Jenny Pritchett. "We'll consider what it means to be a parent, or a child in relation to a parent or caregiver. Our families of origin shape us, and for those who have children – or those who can't, or choose not to – the idea of being a parent brings fascinating complexity, not least in how we see ourselves."

Together we will reflect on what it means to "father," or to "mother." We will read selections from authors such as Camille Dungy, Frank Conroy, Maggie Nelson, and Angela Garbes by and about all kinds of parents, including disabled parents, parents of color, and queer and trans parents. We will examine our personal histories and our present-day lives, exploring the many dimensions of what having a parent – or being one – means in our modern world.

At the end of five weeks, students will leave with fresh drafts from in-class writing exercises, which will enrich students' understanding of their own lives as parents and/or as children of parents.

About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes

In-person class schedules are subject to sudden change or cancellation due to Covid. We will communicate any course changes to you as quickly as possible. Masking, social distancing, and other Covid measures will be enforced in accordance with local guidelines. Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about your class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.