The Sprinkler

Abstract

“The Sprinkler” is a work of autobiographical fiction that observes childhood development in an abusive, working-class, Protestant family headed by an alcoholic, bipolar father, and a distant, passive/aggressive immigrant mother. The memories were recalled during psychological sessions and personal development journaling, remembered through the eyes of a child; rationalized through psychology; then fictionalized to protect identities and interject detail. The child reflects on their secular/singular family life that shuns materialism in contrast to their modern, North American neighbours. In particular, the piece spans the disciplines of psychology (childhood development, surviving trauma), sociology (social class), religion, and feminism.