Living With B

Set in the near future, the story takes place in the Republic of Gilead—a theocratic regime built from the ruins of the United States. Reacting to social unrest and a falling birthrate, Gilead enforces extreme, literal interpretations of scripture, with devastating consequences for women and men alike. Told through the eyes of Offred, a Handmaid forced to bear children for the ruling class, Atwood’s prose—by turns sharp, tender, and haunting—peels back the calm facade to reveal a chillingly logical dystopia.

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My Thoughts

Do you ever read something and think to yourself “Huh…”?

Well, that’s what The Handmaid’s Tale made me do.

I’ve been wanting to read this for a while. It’s a classic. It’s interesting. However, what motivated me to pick it up was the current state of the United States’ political climate. Now, I won’t delve into that, because I’m not entirely confident in my understanding of everything that’s happening. But what I can say is it feels like this is something we’re slowly creeping toward.

This story is a warning—it’s not meant to be repeated. And the more things keep shifting in the US, the more I see remnants of this book reflected around us.

Let’s get into the actual text.

I enjoyed Margaret Atwood’s writing. It’s vivid, full of soul, and so descriptive you feel completely engulfed in the world she creates. Yes, it’s slow, sometimes repetitive or meandering, but her words are lyrical and sharp—they stay with you long after you finish.

Offred, our overall nameless protagonist, is passive, scared, and selfish. And that’s what makes her unforgettable—she feels real. She tried to escape with her family before the government got them. They failed, and while we don’t fully know what happened to them, we feel her remorse and guilt bleed through every page.

One thing that might turn people away is the lack of a clear resolution. It’s ambiguous—and honestly? I didn’t mind it. It fits the world she lives in. What more could she realistically do?

If you think there could have been a resolution, I’d genuinely love to hear what you think, because, to me, the ending was perfect for the story being told.

Do I Recommend ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’?

Yes. I think most—if not all—people should at least know what The Handmaid’s Tale entails and why it’s such an important piece of contemporary literature.

It’s a classic dystopian novel that punches you in the gut politically.

If you’re okay with slower, quieter storytelling, give this a read.

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