Story perspectives

Atwood: 'Handmaid's Tale' Themes More Relevant Than Ever

12/8/2025

Summary

Story summary

Margaret Atwood, the Canadian author of The Handmaid's Tale, says the novel's dystopian themes are increasingly plausible.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4, she notes disbelief has shifted since 2016.
Atwood says red cloaks worn by handmaids symbolize protest against the administration of President Donald Trump, especially on abortion rights.
She remains optimistic that oppressive regimes are unsustainable and that The Testaments continues to resonate amid challenges.

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Story summary

Margaret Atwood, the Canadian author of The Handmaid's Tale, says the novel's dystopian themes are increasingly plausible.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4, she notes disbelief has shifted since 2016.
Atwood says red cloaks worn by handmaids symbolize protest against the administration of President Donald Trump, especially on abortion rights.
She remains optimistic that oppressive regimes are unsustainable and that The Testaments continues to resonate amid challenges.