Margaret Atwood on Aging and Her Memoirs
At 85, Margaret Atwood remains Canada’s most renowned author and one of the most celebrated writers globally. During a conversation in a busy Toronto café, she chose to speak quietly on the terrace about her much-anticipated memoirs.
Reflections on Writing Memoirs
Atwood admits she was initially reluctant to write her memoirs. She found the process unappealing, questioning,
“Who wants to read the story of someone sitting at a desk wrestling with a blank page?”and humorously concluding,
“It’s boring enough to die of boredom.”Despite this, she eventually completed the memoirs.
Themed Thoughts on Aging
Atwood comments on societal expectations of older women:
“Older women are only allowed to be two things: wise old women or wicked old witches.”
Other Topics Discussed
- Her views on Donald Trump
- The lasting impact of The Handmaid’s Tale
- Insights on Canadian literature
- Contemplations on mortality
Setting
The interview takes place on a sunny day in autumn in downtown Toronto, where the season hints at the coming winter.
Summary: Margaret Atwood candidly shares her unique perspective on aging, the challenges of writing memoirs, and enduring literary themes amid reflections on society and mortality.