Atwood, who is 85 years old, was questioned about the ongoing criticism her work has faced since its 1985 publication during the interview. While her novel has been widely praised and adopted by left-wing protesters, she revealed that the backlash she faces is often more severe from the political left. Atwood stated that she is not only criticized for her content but is also seen as a traitor for not endorsing the specific political positions her left-wing critics hold. She made the claim in the context of discussing her new memoir, which is titled ‘Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts.’
Atwood also highlighted the growing concern about the direction of the United States during the interview. She emphasized the troubling trend of political movements toward authoritarian control, particularly noting the increasing influence of media manipulation and the intertwining of executive and judicial power. Atwood’s comments reflect a broader debate about the role of literature in shaping and reflecting political discourse. The continued popularity of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ has also been closely associated with current events, as the show’s themes resonate with ongoing discussions about reproductive rights, women’s autonomy, and the political climate in the United States.