Ashley C. Ford reads "Unwished For"

The transcript is a reading of the poem 'Unwished For' by Shira Erlichman, which explores themes of infertility, mental health, and societal perceptions of worth. The narrator reflects on an encounter with a couple at an ice cream shop, who are seeking a surrogate. The narrator examines the couple's criteria and confronts the implications of their desires, leading to a realization about societal attitudes towards mental illness and suffering.

What themes are introduced in the beginning of the poem 'Unwished For'?

• Infertility and mental health

• Adventure and exploration

• Love and romance

• Technology and innovation

In the ice cream shop, what does the narrator notice about the couple on the flyer?

• They are celebrating a birthday

• They are planning a vacation

• They are struggling with infertility

• They are advertising a new product

What criteria on the flyer does the narrator reflect upon?

• Age and nationality

• No criminal record and no history of mental illness

• Physical appearance and height

• Educational background and work experience

How does the narrator relate to the criteria mentioned on the flyer?

• They feel confused

• They feel indifferent

• They feel personally connected

• They feel excited

What argument does the narrator make about life and suffering?

• Life, even with suffering, is preferable to non-existence

• Suffering is the only way to live

• Life should be free of suffering

• Suffering is a reason to not exist