Alice Vincent: A Garden of One's Own
Description
There are certain rites of passage that take place after a major break-up. For some, it’s a hair-cut or a big solo trip, or a regrettable rebound with someone the polar opposite of your ex. My guest this week, Alice Vincent, departed from the cliches: for her, it was growing plants. In her partly autobiographical books, Rootbound and more recently Why Women Grow, Alice chronicles how she came to growing plants as a way to heal and regain a sense of control after a break-up in her late twenties. As her life has changed – Alice is now married with her first child – gardening has remained a constant for her. In this episode, we discuss how Alice has navigated the changes of the past seven years, how gardening has allowed her to maintain a version of independence throughout it, and why she never feels lonely while out in the garden. Later, Alice also shares her tips for beginning your gardening journey by yourself, whether it’s just growing herbs on a windowsill, using a balcony space or joining a community garden.
Takeaways
- Alone time can be a valuable and fulfilling experience, allowing for personal growth and self-reflection.
- Creating personal space, whether through gardening or other activities, can provide a sense of independence and freedom.
- Navigating relationships and sharing space with a partner requires constant communication and a willingness to compromise.
- Taking time alone, whether through solo trips or dedicated alone time at home, can be rejuvenating and empowering.
Introduction
Transition to Writing
Exploring Alonement
Defining Alone
Aloneness in Different Life Stages
The Luxury of Alone Time
Navigating Alone Time
Themes in Rootbound and Why Women Grow
Finding Solace in Gardening
Creating Space for Oneself
Gardening as a Solitary Activity
The Meditative Nature of Gardening
Living with a Partner and Maintaining Independence
The Ambivalence of Sharing Space
Choosing Relationships on One's Own Terms
Creating Personal Space
Tips for Starting a Growing Journey
Taking Time Alone
Ultimate Alone Time
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