Novel Wisdom (16)

This post is part of a series on the blog where I share some of the nuggets of wisdom and inspiration — related to writing and/or life — that I find steeped in the pages of novels that I’ve read.

It’s been many years since I’ve read The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood. I remember the movie vaguely. I’ve been listening to the audiobook narrated by the fabulous Claire Danes. She does an excellent job portraying Offred.

There was a quote about betrayal that resonated because of my current novel project — since betrayal is one of the major themes. But during my Tuesday morning commute, I heard one that spoke more to me personally and I wanted to share it with you.

The quote has a different context — fighting against the Republic of Gilead — but I believe it can also be transferred to any kind of resistance you may be fighting in your life.

HandmaidsTale
From Offred, the narrator of the novel The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood:

“I believe in the resistance as I believe there can be no light without shadow; or rather, no shadow unless there is also light.”

5 Comments

  1. Nutschell says:

    I’m ashamed to say I’ve yet to read this. I love that quote though. I’ll definitely have to add this book to my TBR pile. :)

    Nutschell
    http://www.thewritingnut.com

  2. I read this long ago and love Atwood. I want to read this again, because I’m sure I’ll get more out of it than I did twenty or so years ago.

    • Karen Strong says:

      Even though I’m just listening to the audiobook, I got more out of it now that I’m older. It’s kinda scary how society can turn in such a short amount of time.

  3. It’s been years since I read this book, but I remember absolutely loving it. I might have to revisit it!

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