Matrescence

On Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Motherhood

De: Lucy Jones

Narrado por: Lucy Jones

Duración: 9 h y 48 m

Resumen del Editor

A New Statesman and Daily Mail BOOK OF THE YEAR

'The best book I've ever read about motherhood' Jude Rogers, Observer

'I kept scribbling in the margins: 'We need to know this stuff!'' Joanna Pocock, Spectator

A radical new examination of the transition into motherhood and how it affects the mind, brain and body

During pregnancy, childbirth, and early motherhood, women undergo a far-reaching physiological, psychological and social metamorphosis.

There is no other time in a human's life course that entails such dramatic change—other than adolescence. And yet this life-altering transition has been sorely neglected by science, medicine and philosophy. Its seismic effects go largely unrepresented across literature and the arts. Speaking about motherhood as anything other than a pastel-hued dream remains, for the most part, taboo.

In this ground-breaking, deeply personal investigation, acclaimed journalist and author Lucy Jones brings to light the emerging concept of 'matrescence'. Drawing on new research across various fields—neuroscience and evolutionary biology; psychoanalysis and existential therapy; sociology, economics and ecology—Jones shows how the changes in the maternal mind, brain and body are far more profound, wild and enduring than we have been led to believe. She reveals the dangerous consequences of our neglect of the maternal experience and interrogates the patriarchal and capitalist systems that have created the untenable situation mothers face today.

Here is an urgent examination of the modern institution of motherhood, which seeks to unshackle all parents from oppressive social norms. As it deepens our understanding of matrescence, it raises vital questions about motherhood and femininity; interdependence and individual identity; as well as about our relationships with each other and the living world.

Cover image: Pregnant Woman, 2008, by Louise Bourgeois © 2024 The Easton Foundation / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY. Photo: Cristopher Burke

©2024 Lucy Jones (P)2024 Random House Audio

Reseñas de la Crítica

Longisted for Woman's Prize for Non-Fiction

“In this maddening journey of motherhood, I encourage everyone to let Matrescence be your soothing guide. From my early days of motherhood to a few years deep in the trenches, Lucy’s words and wisdom continues to guide and comfort me. Matrescence is the sister I never had but always longed for as I try to figure out how to mother in this world. It’s a fierce book, equally tender as it is sharp. It is my kind of bible that I will carry with me (and gift to others!) for a long time.”—Szilvia Molnar, author of The Nursery

“Sweeping and courageous.”—Tom Mustill, biologist, filmmaker, author of How to Speak Whale

"A deep dive into the radical transformation of becoming a mother...An intimate, insightful memoir."—Kirkus

Required Reading for All

A cathartic read for new moms, an excellent read for anyone who has a mom in their life.

thoroughness

openness !
intelligence!
great reading, well- researched, thoughtful presentation, balanced view.
Highly recommended to all parents.

Must read for new mothers and mothers to be

I have struggled after my son was born and I blamed myself for that. After reading this book I felt a relief knowing what I went through was a normal reaction as a newly mom. I recommend this book to any new mothers.

Moving

The most seen I have ever felt in a book. Well done. Every mother, father, mother to be and person should read this.

Unmatched candor

I wish I could give 6 stars. This book will radicalize you and you will enjoy it.

Recommend to all!

Having just had my second, I still had no appreciation- or had not been able to put into words-the profound, and irreversible, evolution I’d gone under to become a mom. This book gave words to something we all go through but that our culture does to teach, appreciate or celebrate. Thank you for this book! Love it and recommend it to all expectant and new moms!

I felt seen & understood

This book made me feel seen and understood. I have struggled to articulate my inner experience of becoming a mother and Lucy nailed it. Hands down one of the best books I’ve ever read. It’s illuminating and made me realize that it is not just me. Thank you, Lucy. Your words cradled my heart during a deeply tumultuous time.

Please read with caution if you’re pregnant.

I wanted to like this book as a realistic view on pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. For those who have experienced a traumatic birth or have PTSD, I can see how this would be very helpful and validating. But for someone who is newly pregnant for the first time and looking to experience the dualistic nature of motherhood. I felt disempowered reading this book. I found myself asking, “Should I be feeling more anxious?” Then questioning my decisions and political views. Honestly, you can’t focus on absolutely EVERYTHING while you’re growing a baby, nor can you live with rose colored glasses on daily. I am naturally a realist, which is why I kept reading the book. But every time I stopped, I checked in with my body and felt sad & depressed about the state of the world and what it’ll be like to be a mother. Every person is different, but if you do read this book, I suggest pairing it with many other stories of motherhood so you can feel an array of emotions connected to the experience.