Margaret Atwood Attributes “The Handmaid’s Tale” Success Beyond Her or Book’s Merit
Margaret Atwood, the celebrated Canadian author, has made significant contributions to literature, particularly with her dystopian novel, “The Handmaid’s Tale.” The book has sold over 10 million copies and inspired an Emmy-winning Hulu series. Despite its immense popularity, Atwood does not consider it her greatest work. She attributes its contemporary relevance to current societal issues, including the rollback of reproductive rights and the 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Understanding the Impact of “The Handmaid’s Tale”
Atwood argues that the continued relevance of her book is due to historical circumstances rather than its inherent quality. She stated, “It’s partly in the twists and turns of history.” The iconic red costume from the novel has transformed into a symbol of protest against oppression.
Atwood’s Unique Writing Philosophy
Margaret Atwood is not only known for her novels but also for her strict writing rule: every event in her fiction must be rooted in reality. Atwood has published 64 works that explore themes of totalitarianism, environmental collapse, and global pandemics. Her 2003 novel “Oryx and Crake” addressed environmental crises, emphasizing potential dangers rather than certainties.
My Memoir: “Book of Lives”
Recently, Atwood released her memoir titled “Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts.” The book chronicles her childhood in Quebec, where she was homeschooled. Her father’s work as an entomologist instilled in her a meticulous attention to detail.
- Homeschooled until age 12
- Influenced by her father’s work on insects
- Graduated from Victoria College, University of Toronto in 1961
After graduation, Atwood rejected the notion that Canadian writers must seek success abroad. Instead, she stayed in Canada and contributed to its literary landscape, eventually collaborating with the late writer Graeme Gibson.
Reflections on Family and Society
In her memoir, Atwood reflects on her family dynamics and the complexities of blended families. She shares personal letters where she confesses her feelings regarding parenthood, showing her vulnerability and introspection.
The Role of Dystopia in Current Events
Atwood began writing “The Handmaid’s Tale” in West Berlin in 1984 amidst Cold War tensions. Her experiences in Eastern Europe inspired her portrayal of surveillance and oppression. She warns that the erosion of civil liberties could signal a move toward dictatorship, particularly in the United States.
Challenges to Literary Freedom
Atwood’s works have faced bans in 135 American school districts, as reported by PEN America. These bans often cite moral or political objections. Atwood noted that she has faced criticism more from the political left than from the right, highlighting the complexities of literary freedom in today’s climate.
Through her work, Margaret Atwood continues to address profound societal issues, contributing to important discussions about rights and freedoms. Her ongoing relevance in literature reflects her ability to weave critical themes into compelling narratives.
