In the ever changing world that is pop culture, where the limelight can suddenly rise on an individual and set on another, Lily Allen has carved out a niche for herself and there she thrived under constant scrutiny and criticism. She recently let it known while having a chat on a podcast that raising children had an effect on her career, these comments brought under the microscope that is social trends.
Allen’s comments, spoken with her usual blend of humor and candor, were quickly diapered across many social media platforms, generating heated debates on the realities of being a parent and working. She did let it be known her children were her entire world, her words nonetheless didn’t sit well with a lot of people, spotlighting the not-so-glamorous side of parenting that often goes unnoticed while trying to balance being a mother and working under the microscopic gaze of the public.
The singer’s life has however been just as charged as the music she sang. From notable pieces like “smile” to “No shame”, the albums she recorded had made to the top of charts not just for the styles she brought to her music but the changes it had on her creative process that is her life. The debut album “Alright still” was her ticket to stardom, skyrocketing her into the spotlight, where she earned her a steady and supportive following.
The fame she found with her music also came with the ups and downs that is her life – Marriage, motherhood and the constant retreat that comes with that kind of life defining roles. Allen was constantly making decisions that affected her life and career.
For Lily Allen, this meant taking breaks from music to be present for her daughters. However, she has found fulfilment in acting, even receiving an Olivier Award nomination for her work on stage.
The comments from Lily Allen and the other celebrities is not that motherhood is a negative experience, but rather that it can significantly alter the course of a career. There is a recognition that dedicating oneself fully to both career and family can be unrealistic and sometimes unachievable.
Ultimately, the gist is that the decision of how to balance motherhood and career is a personal one. Some women, like Lily Allen, may choose to step back from the spotlight to focus on their children. Others may find ways to integrate their family life into their professional pursuits.
