Margaret Atwood's novel The Handmaid's Tale is composed of countless criticisms of today's society. On page 57, through the use of a pillow as a symbol for faith, Atwood conveys her belief that religious faith has become outdated in modern society. The symbol created by the author in this particular passage is an old, faded pillow with the word "FAITH" printed on it. Immediately, the word faith can be attributed to religion. Regarding the pillow, the author wrote, "This is a cushion once used elsewhere, worn but not enough to throw out" (Atwood 57). This line, along with the faded appearance of the pillow, points to the current irrelevance of Faith. It is acknowledged that Faith once had its purposes, but at this point in time it serves little purpose to most. However, it is noted that this pillow is not quite worn enough to be thrown out. Religious Faith provides one something to fall back on in times of trouble or distress and never remains completely irrelevant in one's life. The resting place for the pillow in this scene is a window seat described as "too narrow for comfort" (57). This description points to the author's possible belief that the required followings of certain organized religions have become too narrow-minded and opposed to change. In some religions, a worshiper is unable to form their own opinions on certain issues due to the strict guidelines enforced by their religion, which tends to push some away from their Faith. Through the use of this faded pillow, Atwood is able to convey her belief that religious faith has become outdated in modern society. One of the dominant ideas that is found in this novel is the condemning of women as sexual objects, not only in the fictional society of Gilliad but also in real, modern society. With this idea ever present, this particular passage stood out to me. This passage occurs when Offred and Nick are to have intercourse, " ' There's no need to be brutal,' I say. Possibly he feels used. Possibly he wants something from me, some emotion, some acknowledgment that he too is human, is more than just a seedpod" (Atwood 262). I found this passage interesting due to its complete contrast to one of the central ideas found in the novel. This passage addresses the possibility that men too, especially Nick in this situation, have the ability to feel used. In this case, Offred realizes that Nick may feel like nothing more than a "seedpod" and be degraded for being used sexually just as the Handmaids. In a way, this passage illustrated the emotional similarities that can be shared by both men and women and proves that certain feelings cannot be limited to a gender.
I would classify reading The Handmaid's Tale as an overall positive, and enjoyable experience. I found it impressive that Margaret Atwood was able to get her various criticisms across without sacrificing the elements of a great story. However, I do feel somewhat deprived of an ending. The author did such a great job in creating a main character that the reader is able to sympathize with, that I believe as readers, we deserve a more complete ending without any loose ends. It is a shame that the ending left a sour taste in my mouth because I really enjoyed reading this novel.
