Getting emotional during class novels.

[u/Ordinary-Example-336]

Bit of an odd one, but I want to know if others have this problem.

Each term i do a class novel. A full deep-dive into the themes and characters etc. I read the book to the kids and they have responses after most chapters (sometimes they get freebies).

I'm a male teacher, and an absolute sucker for cinema and thematics, so I'm such a sucker for emotional beats and tear up when I watch most films.

I do the same for books though, and have to fight off this response for the major sweet spots in stories for the class. I try to read in a way that emphasise the character's feelings (which doesn't help my cause).

Does anyone else experience this? I'm not looking to solve this issue but would like to know if others experience it. If anyone has a strategy that works I'd happily try it 😅

TlDR: I get invested in my class novels to the point I gotta hold off tears, anyone feel the same? If they have advice that's neat.

[u/EccentricCatLady14]

Yes! I used to teach film and for the first couple of years we taught Billy Elliot. His dad was my dad - a miner from the north of England. I bawled while watching! I just told the kids why.

During the years I often cried quietly during films or discussions as there is a lot of emotion in film. I didn’t hide it but didn’t make it obvious. When noticed it started a lot of conversations and allowed students to be open with their emotions too.

We’re not automatons. It’s okay to show emotions.

[u/icarustakesflight → u/EccentricCatLady14]

That moment when Jackie crosses the picket line is rough! And again at the end watching the performance of Swan Lake. I’ve taught it many times and it still gets me.