By: Taylor Morgan
As the series finale of Girls unfolded, I braced myself for the expected reveal of Hannah’s abortion. Instead, I was taken aback to see her cradling a healthy, mixed-race baby, a clear indication of a father of color. Having missed some key episodes, including the infamous water skiing instructor hookup, this revelation hit me hard, especially considering the show’s previous lack of diversity, which had drawn criticism.
Growing up with Girls, I resonated with the carefree escapades of its Brooklyn-based leads during my early twenties. But when I became a mother at 26, I felt as if those carefree days had vanished. As an aspiring writer, I feared my narrative well would run dry, believing my life would be reduced to writing about the challenges of parenting in a bustling city.
The finale of Girls captured that shift in identity, mirroring my own experience of losing a sense of self as a first-time parent. However, it did so with authenticity, illustrating how the series’ protagonist had matured.
What Did *Girls* Get Right About Parenting?
So, what did Girls get right about parenting as a millennial mom? It portrayed the journey as utterly exhausting, occasionally mundane, but also beautiful.
Hannah struggles with breastfeeding, opting to pump instead. This disconnect with her fatherless child is palpable, especially when he refuses to latch on. Her lactation struggles echo the pressures many mothers face, particularly from friends like Marnie, who insist on the “breast is best” mantra, often overlooking the challenges that come with it. The finale dedicates a significant chunk of its runtime—15 of the 38 minutes—to the all-consuming task of feeding and soothing a newborn, aptly titled “Latching.” While it diverges from the show’s usual sharp wit, it offers a raw depiction of the early months of motherhood.
You’ll also find yourself wrestling with feelings about your partner’s “freedom.” While Hannah navigates single motherhood, her friend Marnie steps in to assist with sleepless nights. Marnie’s willingness to help highlights their strong bond, but her request to attend a jazz festival emphasizes the resentment many new mothers feel when their partners enjoy leisure while they handle round-the-clock childcare.
Postpartum depression is a reality for many women, myself included. Marnie, unsure of how to support Hannah, reaches out to Hannah’s mother, who imparts some not-so-helpful wisdom about sleep-deprived parenting. Although her advice may miss the mark, her willingness to pitch in shows that actions truly speak louder than words.
Hannah’s encounter with a distressed, half-dressed teenage girl after a fight with her mother serves as a stark reminder of how motherhood shifts our perspectives. I distinctly remember feeling apprehensive during a concert when I saw teenagers engaging in reckless behavior. It made me reflect on my own youth and the guidance my mother provided, reminding me of the delicate balance between freedom and responsibility.
Where *Girls* Fell Short
Yet, while Girls nailed some aspects of motherhood, it also faltered in a few areas. For instance, the notion that a new mom can easily enjoy wine on the porch while her baby sleeps or escape for a night out is far from reality.
Despite the mixed reception of the finale, I found it to be a poignant and mature conclusion to the series. For those navigating the chaotic waters of parenthood, this portrayal resonates deeply.
In summary, Girls skillfully captured the essence of first-time motherhood, highlighting its challenges and beauty while reminding us of the friendships that support us through the journey.
For more insightful information on home insemination and parenting, check out our blog posts on the at-home insemination kit and CDC’s resources on pregnancy.
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