Margaret Atwood: The Handmaid's Tale (Bloom's Guides) : Book Review

In his book "Margaret Atwood," author Harold Bloom provides a thorough examination of Atwood's body of work, offering valuable insights into her immense contributions to literature. With his expertise as a literary critic and evident admiration for Atwood's writing, Bloom presents an engaging and enlightening read that appeals to both fans of the author and scholars seeking a deeper understanding of her work.

Bloom starts by delving into Atwood's early poetry, highlighting her exploration of important themes such as feminism, mythology, and the complexities of the human experience. Moving on to her novels, including renowned works like "The Handmaid's Tale," "Alias Grace," and "The Blind Assassin," Bloom delves into the multi-layered characters, intricate plots, and thought-provoking ideas that define Atwood's storytelling.

Throughout the book, Bloom examines Atwood's distinct writing style, incorporating elements of science fiction, speculative fiction, and historical fiction. He praises her ability to craft vivid and compelling narratives that resonate with readers on various levels. Bloom also explores Atwood's use of metafiction, intertextuality, and symbolism, emphasizing how these literary techniques enrich her works.

However, Bloom's analysis goes beyond merely dissecting Atwood's writing techniques. He delves into the deeper meanings and social commentary present in her works, shining a light on themes such as gender roles, environmentalism, social oppression, and the dynamics of power. Through this exploration, Bloom illuminates the profound observations Atwood makes about our society and the world we inhabit.

Ultimately, "Margaret Atwood" by Harold Bloom is a thoughtful and comprehensive study of one of the most influential writers of our time. Bloom's admiration for Atwood's literary prowess is evident throughout his analysis, inviting readers into a deeper understanding of her work and its significance. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the complex and captivating universe created by Margaret Atwood.

What are readers saying?

The reception of Margaret Atwood by Harold Bloom has been met with a range of opinions. Some readers have lauded the book for its insightful analysis and profound comprehension of Atwood's works, while others have voiced criticisms about its repetitive nature and biased perspective.

Many readers appreciate how Harold Bloom thoroughly examines Margaret Atwood's novels and poetry, finding his exploration of her work to be engaging and thought-provoking. Bloom's deep understanding of Atwood's themes and literary techniques adds immense value to the book, making it a valuable resource for both Atwood enthusiasts and scholars. Reviewers especially enjoy how Bloom delves into the feminist themes that permeate Atwood's writings, offering unique insights into her body of work.

However, some readers express dissatisfaction with the repetitive nature of the book. They feel that Bloom repeatedly revisits the same points throughout, resulting in a sense of monotony. These readers believe that the book could have been more concise and focused, delivering a more comprehensive analysis of Atwood's entire oeuvre instead of reiterating similar ideas.

Another point of contention among reviewers concerns Bloom's perceived bias towards Atwood's writings. Some readers argue that Bloom excessively praises and glorifies Atwood's work, to the extent of idolization. This bias, they contend, undermines the book's credibility and restricts a more balanced and objective analysis of Atwood's literary contributions.

Accessibility is also criticized by some readers. They find Bloom's writing style dense and academic, making it challenging for casual readers to fully comprehend and engage with the material. This group suggests that the book may be better suited for scholarly reading rather than a general readership.

MargaretAtwood AtwoodBook LiteraryClassic