Margaret Atwood's memoir, "Book of Lives," is an autobiography that defies traditional genre boundaries. Rather than a straightforward memoir or slice-of-life narrative, it's a sweeping exploration of her 85-year career, weaving together fragments of her personal and professional life.
The author's decision not to write a traditional literary memoir was deliberate, as she worried it would be "boring." Instead, she opted for an approach that blends storytelling with introspection, revealing the woman behind the iconic writer. Atwood's narrative is marked by its sharp humor, wit, and candor, making her a relatable figure even to those unfamiliar with her extensive body of work.
Atwood's early life was shaped by her parents, a forest entomologist father and tomboyish mother from Nova Scotia, who instilled in her a love for the outdoors. The family spent summers camping and exploring, which sparked her passion for nature, birds, insects, and mushrooms. This upbringing laid the groundwork for her writing career, as she drew inspiration from her natural surroundings.
As Atwood navigated high school, she faced bullying and humiliation, but learned valuable lessons about resilience and self-empowerment. Her experiences during this period later influenced her novel "Cat's Eye," a powerful exploration of female oppression and the complexities of adolescence.
Atwood's academic pursuits took her to Toronto's star-studded university scene, where she was influenced by notable academics Marshall McLuhan and Northrop Frye. She began researching the Salem witch trials, which would later inform her dystopian novel "The Handmaid's Tale." Her early career was marked by breakthroughs, including winning the Governor General's award for her thematic guide to Canadian literature.
However, Atwood's success also drew criticism and backlash. She recounts being attacked as a "man-killer" and being labeled an acid-tongued, frightening figure. These attacks were likely fueled by jealousy and malice, but Atwood refuses to dwell on them. Instead, she chooses to celebrate her triumphs and the people who supported her along the way.
One notable exception is Shirley, Graeme Gibson's wife, whom Atwood portrays as a controlling presence in her life. The author's relationship with Gibson was complicated, but they shared a deep love for each other, and their partnership spanned half a century.
Throughout "Book of Lives," Atwood offers wisdom, often humorously referred to as "life lessons." Her experiences have taught her the importance of resilience, hard work, and staying true to oneself. As she navigates the challenges of aging and declining health, Atwood remains committed to her craft, choosing to prioritize her writing over the temptation to slow down.
The book concludes on a poignant note, with Atwood reflecting on the choices she made and the price she paid for success. She acknowledges that life is precious, but also recognizes that one must keep moving forward – even in the face of adversity. As she puts it, "Ask yourself, Dear Reader: The busy schedule or the empty chair? I chose the busy schedule."
Ultimately, "Book of Lives" is a testament to Atwood's boundless energy and creativity. Her memoir offers a rare glimpse into the life of a literary icon, revealing the woman behind the words – a complex, multifaceted individual with a wicked sense of humor and an unyielding passion for storytelling.
The author's decision not to write a traditional literary memoir was deliberate, as she worried it would be "boring." Instead, she opted for an approach that blends storytelling with introspection, revealing the woman behind the iconic writer. Atwood's narrative is marked by its sharp humor, wit, and candor, making her a relatable figure even to those unfamiliar with her extensive body of work.
Atwood's early life was shaped by her parents, a forest entomologist father and tomboyish mother from Nova Scotia, who instilled in her a love for the outdoors. The family spent summers camping and exploring, which sparked her passion for nature, birds, insects, and mushrooms. This upbringing laid the groundwork for her writing career, as she drew inspiration from her natural surroundings.
As Atwood navigated high school, she faced bullying and humiliation, but learned valuable lessons about resilience and self-empowerment. Her experiences during this period later influenced her novel "Cat's Eye," a powerful exploration of female oppression and the complexities of adolescence.
Atwood's academic pursuits took her to Toronto's star-studded university scene, where she was influenced by notable academics Marshall McLuhan and Northrop Frye. She began researching the Salem witch trials, which would later inform her dystopian novel "The Handmaid's Tale." Her early career was marked by breakthroughs, including winning the Governor General's award for her thematic guide to Canadian literature.
However, Atwood's success also drew criticism and backlash. She recounts being attacked as a "man-killer" and being labeled an acid-tongued, frightening figure. These attacks were likely fueled by jealousy and malice, but Atwood refuses to dwell on them. Instead, she chooses to celebrate her triumphs and the people who supported her along the way.
One notable exception is Shirley, Graeme Gibson's wife, whom Atwood portrays as a controlling presence in her life. The author's relationship with Gibson was complicated, but they shared a deep love for each other, and their partnership spanned half a century.
Throughout "Book of Lives," Atwood offers wisdom, often humorously referred to as "life lessons." Her experiences have taught her the importance of resilience, hard work, and staying true to oneself. As she navigates the challenges of aging and declining health, Atwood remains committed to her craft, choosing to prioritize her writing over the temptation to slow down.
The book concludes on a poignant note, with Atwood reflecting on the choices she made and the price she paid for success. She acknowledges that life is precious, but also recognizes that one must keep moving forward – even in the face of adversity. As she puts it, "Ask yourself, Dear Reader: The busy schedule or the empty chair? I chose the busy schedule."
Ultimately, "Book of Lives" is a testament to Atwood's boundless energy and creativity. Her memoir offers a rare glimpse into the life of a literary icon, revealing the woman behind the words – a complex, multifaceted individual with a wicked sense of humor and an unyielding passion for storytelling.
I'm so over how long it takes to load on this platform. Like, can't we just get some decent speeds already? 
And have you noticed how every thread gets hijacked by spammers trying to sell us "discounted" software or something? 
It's like they think we're all just a bunch of gullible fools waiting to be swindled. 
Anyway, back to Margaret Atwood... I loved her writing style in this memoir - it's so witty and relatable! But honestly, who needs the drama with Shirley Gibson? Can't we just focus on the books already? 
And don't even get me started on how outdated my browser looks next to all these fancy graphics. 
I think its so cool how Margaret Atwood's past & present all blend together in this book 
, like who wouldn't want to know what goes on behind the mind of a literary genius 
?
]
]
]
. And yeah, it's kinda harsh that people attacked her for who she is, but Atwood seems like the kind of person who'd just laugh it off and keep on going 
. I love how she talks about staying true to oneself and not slowing down, even when things get tough 
. She's definitely inspiring me to pursue my own passions and not let anyone bring me down 
- it keeps her story from feeling too formulaic or predictable. plus, who needs labels when you've got a life as wild and wonderful as hers? 
i mean, she's been through so much - bullying, success, heartbreak, etc... - but instead of playing it safe, she just runs with it (literally, in some cases) and sees where the story takes her. that's what makes "book of lives" so compelling & relatable: it's like getting a front-row seat to atwood's wild ride 
Life begins at the end. 
It's a reminder to not waste time dwelling on what could've been, but instead focus on making the most of the present moment. Atwood's life has been a journey of ups and downs, but it's her resilience that shines through in this memoir. She's a true inspiration! 
. Anyway, reading Margaret Atwood's memoir has made me realize that her writing career spanned so many decades, I can only imagine the changes she saw during that time 
! I mean, who else can make a memoir feel like a party 
? Her life story is like a wild rollercoaster ride 
, full of twists and turns that'll keep you on the edge of your seat 
. And can we talk about her wit 
.
, sharing her struggles with bullying and criticism, but also celebrating her triumphs 
genius! It's like she's saying, "Hey, life might get tough, but you gotta keep moving forward." 
, and her writing is still as fierce and powerful as ever 
. I'm so grateful for this memoir, it's like getting a front-row seat to her incredible journey 
. Can't wait to read more about her adventures! 
! She's like a total boss, you know? I mean, the girl went through all that crap in high school and still came out on top 
.
. She's so honest about her struggles, like facing bullying in high school, but also how those experiences taught her to be strong and resilient 
.