Mother Tongue #6

Mother Tongue #6 explores the coexistence of seemingly incompatible ideas, emotions and experiences — finding humour alongside trauma, motherhood alongside ambivalence, confidence alongside uncertainty, and empathy within an increasingly complicated world.

This issue brings together a wide-ranging group of writers, artists, filmmakers and thinkers. Lulu Wang and Priyanka Mattoo discuss humour and trauma, while Samantha Mann explores rejecting pregnancy and embracing motherhood. Poet Maggie Smith attempts to unravel the mysteries of the self, while illustrator Jess Rotter celebrates the unapologetic confidence of the Real Housewives.

Elsewhere, the issue considers empathy and non-binary thinking in a post-October 7th reality with Moh Mahdara, Rabbi Sharon Brous and BLM co-founder Patrisse Cullors; explores categorisation with artist Hayv Kahraman; and celebrates sisterhood with Salamishah and Scheherazade Tillet.

There are also essays and stories about grief, hoarding, body image, politics, workwear and midlife desire — including a sizzling profile of cover star Miranda July, written by Hillary Kelly.

Featuring additional work and words by Michelle Arcila, Lesly Deschler Canossi, Paula Codoner, Alex Free, Alma Haser, Lucy Jones, Nanse Kawashima, Emma Larsson, Zoe Lescaze, Nadiya Nacorda, Maggie Shannon, Ashley Simpo, Akilah Townsend and Anaïs Wade.

A smart, candid and eclectic issue about the contradictions that make up modern life.