Renowned author Margaret Atwood, known for her diverse literary talents, recently dabbled in palm reading during an interview with Matt Galloway from The Current. At 85, Atwood reflects on her life journey in her memoir, Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts, delving into the reciprocal influence between her experiences and her writing.
Born in 1939 to parents deeply immersed in storytelling, Atwood spent her formative years in remote wilderness settings in Ontario and Quebec. Despite the unconventional upbringing, she asserts that becoming a writer is not a predetermined outcome of such an environment. Notably, Atwood’s early creative endeavors included compiling poetry collections and envisioning herself as a novelist since high school.
During her university years at the University of Toronto, Atwood immersed herself in Canadian literature and began performing poetry at the Bohemian Embassy cafe. At that time, Canadian literary works were often undervalued, but the ’60s witnessed a profound shift with the emergence of literary luminaries like Atwood, Michael Ondaatje, and Alice Munro.
Atwood’s iconic work, The Handmaid’s Tale, published in 1985, explored a dystopian future where American women faced oppression under a theocratic regime. The novel’s relevance escalated during Trump’s presidency, reflecting societal shifts towards authoritarianism. As tensions between Canada and the U.S. simmer, Atwood emphasizes the importance of preserving the bond between the two countries amidst political upheaval.
Approaching her 86th birthday, Atwood’s candid reflections in her memoir are unapologetically honest, infused with her signature wit. Humor, she believes, is vital in navigating the aging process, as she humorously recounts a recent encounter with an audiologist. As for what the future holds, Atwood remains tight-lipped, keeping her current projects under wraps.
Throughout her illustrious career, Margaret Atwood has not only shaped modern literature but also provided insightful commentary on societal and political issues, cementing her status as a literary icon.