My Thoughts on "The Handmaid's Tale"

"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood is a controversial piece because of the manner that certain opinions and behaviors are frowned upon in this novel.  This work is and in depth look at extremism and serves as a reminder against such actions.  Reasons such as this are one of the grounds that I use to support my enjoyment of the work.  The blunt, unemotional manner in which the novel is often presented in, aids in the realization of how trapped the people in this society are, that they must stop emotion from entering the equation or they might break down.  This helped me connect to the character of Offred and become personally invested in her story.  The author manipulates the language of this piece so that the reader feels sympathy and empathy for Offred.  In addition, I liked this novel not only because of this form of delivery, but also on the basis of Atwood's use of symbols, flashbacks, and allusions that add to the story.  Another cause for my pleasure with the novel is the satirical aspect to it.  In "The Handmaid's Tale," the views of extremists, whom often take their beliefs and ideas too far, are mocked in a subtle and interesting way.  Atwood introduces a novel that not only maintains the readers attention, but at the same time convinces them to reevaluate their opinions and view on life as it is today.  I do not agree with the values of the society of Gilead, however, because Atwood made the work satirical, she develops agreement with her audience that this society is wrong, which I believe is an excellent technique and develops the point of view.  Another rationale for why I enjoy this work is because there was not a clear ending stated.  Atwood purposely left the ending open to the reader's interpretation.  This allows for each person to individually decide on the life that Offred lives once she exits her enslavement.  All of these different reasons contribute to why I liked the novel, "The Handmaid's Tale".