In part one of what will be sizable series, Ellie and Carrie introduce the obscene world of Manhattan private schools, using Caitlin Flanagan's 2021 Atlantic article to guide their discussion. Recalling their educational experience, namely at Spence in this episode, is not so simple: these institutions made them who they are by cultivating their creativity, instilling in them a curiosity for the world around them, and igniting in them a love of learning (hey, Carrie still remembers her declensions). On the other hand, the very existence of these elite institutions runs counter to the sisters' vision of a just society in which education--excellent education--is a right, not a privilege. But to quote Flanagan, "the god of private schools is money." Other topics include the cutthroat game of preschool admissions, Ellie's chronic masturbation as a child, and--at the end of the episode--a dip (or perhaps a cha cha?) into Knicker Bocker. More to come on that front in next Friday's episode. You know you love me. XOXO.

talk about their idyllic memory