Father Nurture

Whenever we think about the topic of ‘Parenthood’ does our mind immediately go to motherhood?. Do we think of mothers and not fathers?. This notion could make us think ‘fathers are somehow secondary to mothers.’  but that is simply not true. Especially when it comes to single fathers, they play an important part and are the main carer of their children and nurtures their children throughout their adult life.

In fact, the term ‘Single Dad’ has been around our conversational language for quite some time and is certainly not a new term. From 1999 to 2019 the number of single parent fathers have grown by 22% while the number of single parent mothers also increased but at a slower rate of 13.4% (ONS).It is apparent that Single Dads are increasing in numbers and is nothing to be astound about. As a matter of fact we are celebrating all the hero single dads out there in this article ‘Father Nurture’ because now more than ever we know how important it is to highlight and celebrate.

There is a new book out ‘Single Dad’ by Harry Borden which celebrates the innate ability in all fathers to nurture and love. In this Book ‘Single Dad’ by Harry Borden, one of the UK’s finest portrait photographers, tells a story with intimate portraits of single – parent fathers alongside stories of love, loss, and the healing power of family. The book reveals the tenderness and vulnerabilities of 48 single dads.

The images portrayed in the book re-evaluates masculinity, puts an image of fathers that is caring, nurturing and positive. Every single dad mentioned in this book has lost in some ways and yet through incredible journey with their children has gained a deep love, care, and affection that only parents can possess and develop.

We see single dads working their hardest and nurturing their children at the same time all around in our communities, in arts, books, songs, films. In The book ‘To kill a Mockingbird’ (turned film), single dad lawyer Atticus Finch brings up his children on his own and teaches moral values , encourages his children to be emphetic and just.

Likewise, in the film ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ based on true story, single dad Chris Gardner’s love and devotion to his son is so immense. Even In the midst of poverty, homelessness, being single parent ,  the fatherly love and optimism to make a better life for his son is so touching and inspiring.

Harry Borden, himself a separated father with four children , has given deep perspective on single fathers through exceptional images and stories of each and every single fathers in the book.

Single Dad by Harry Borden , published 4 March 2021 by Hoxton Mini Press . Here is a link where you can purchase it. If you enjoyed reading Father Nurture why not read Go East to Nurture.