51: The Pregnant Pause with Jane Doucet

Do you ever feel judged by others because you’ve not had a child?
Not surprisingly, many women feel this judgment of “assumptions”
behind the choices or circumstances that have determined their
situation.

One woman decided to take on those judgmental scenarios, so she
did something about it. She wrote a novel which explores many of
the situations that women find themselves in with family, friends
and colleagues. I was really interested to read this book as
whilst there are many non-fiction works about the topic, it's not
the norm to find many novels.


My guest today is Jane Doucet, a Canadian writer based in Halifax
- and she knows that feeling of being judged all too well. Since
1993, Jane has worked in various capacities for national
magazines in Canada. As a freelance writer since 1998, she has
written dozens of feature articles on health, parenting,
gardening, entertainment, education, business, and other diverse
topics for award-winning Canadian magazines and newspapers.


In 2003, Jane wrote the first draft of her debut novel, The
Pregnant Pause. She wrote the book that SHE wanted to read, one
that sent a positive message to women who assumed they’d have
children, but for whatever reason, have not. Following a negative
experience with a literary agent in the UK, Jane shelved the
manuscript for 14 years.


Fast forward to 2016, when Jane dusted off her manuscript and
self-published her book, in order to maintain creative control.
The story is loosely based on her own experiences but is
also representative of many women’s journeys.


Having read the book myself, I could relate to the situations,
commentary, and assumptions that people make when you arrive at a
certain age without offspring in sight. I hope you enjoy my
wonderful conversation with Jane about her fascinating
novel! 


What you’ll hear in this episode:


What led Jane to write The Pregnant Pause

An inspiration for the book at the time? Bridget Jones’ Diary

The uncomfortable and unfortunate experience with a literary
agent in London

The misassumptions people make about a woman with no children

Addressing the topic with a light and humorous work of
fiction

How books and articles helped her write the book

Changes in women’s friendships around having/not having
children

Different ways to “mother” without having a biological child

How statistics around the world support the growing
demographic

Why Jane’s book is not “just for women”

How the book includes relatable experiences for almost
everyone

Why Jane speaks for the silent voices

How labels limit women

How writing brings creative fulfilment

Ideas for Jane’s next book!

Every woman’s story and perspective is valid and unique

The main message of the book: “Don’t judge someone whose
journey is different than yours, as you never know the full
story."



You can find out more about Jane and buy her book
at


www.thepregnantpause.net


 


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For more episodes go to michellemariemcgrath.com