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Margaret Atwood (b1939)
Who?
Prolific goddess of Canadian fiction, her novels often tell of individuals refusing to be crushed by almost intolerable pressures. Described by critics as a moralist, she also writes short stories and poetry.
Must reads
The Circle Game (1966), Dancing Girls (1977), The Edible Woman (1969), Surfacing (1972), Lady Oracle (1976), Life Before Man (1979), Bodily Harm (1982), The Handmaid's Tale (1985), Cat's Eye (1989), Alias Grace (1996), Robber Bride (1993) and Blind Assassin (2000).
Darkest hour
A teacher at her school said she showed no promise.
Greatest triumph
Putting Canadian literature on the world map and being able to use her position to travel the world supporting women's rights and social justice. Shortlisted three times for the Booker Prize, she finally won it with Blind Assasin.
Essential quotes
'It's hard to believe that such a negligible act of hers can have measurable consequences for other people.' (Life Before Man)
'This above all, to refuse to be a victim. Unless I can do that I am nothing.' (Surfacing)
'Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? An older woman knows. But how much older do you have to get before you acquire that kind of wisdom?' (The Robber Bride)
Gossip
At 27, Atwood married American writer James Polk, but it lasted less than five years. The all-consuming power of the emotions in Edible Woman created controversy for its feminist portrayal of women. One interviewer asked her: 'Do men find you attractive?'
Did u know?
She spent many of her early years rummaging around the Canadian bush with her father, who was an entomologist studying forest insects.
What to say
Often writing from a feminist standpoint, Atwood mixes satire and social realism.
Don't say
I wonder whether men find her attractive.
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