Margaret Atwood on Dressing for Revenge

The acclaimed author discusses style, vengeance, ghosts, and being a Scorpio

Mar. 23, 2026 at 8:01pm

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In a wide-ranging interview, renowned author Margaret Atwood opens up about her writing process, personal life, and the themes that permeate her acclaimed works. From the challenges of balancing family and creative pursuits to her thoughts on endings, ghosts, and the nature of revenge, Atwood offers a captivating glimpse into her creative mind.

Why it matters

As one of the most influential authors of our time, Atwood's perspectives on the creative life, personal identity, and the human experience hold profound significance. Her insights shed light on the struggles and joys that come with being a writer, particularly for women navigating the complexities of family, career, and societal expectations.

The details

Atwood, now 86 years old, reflects on her early career when she had to balance day jobs with her writing, often fueling herself with macaroni and cheese and neglecting household chores. She also discusses the challenges of maintaining a creative life while raising a child, describing a period of "baby-brain brain fog" where her desire to write temporarily waned. However, Atwood never doubted that her passion for writing would return, trusting that she would find a way to make time for her craft.

  • Atwood published her memoir, "Book of Lives", in 2025.
  • The interview took place in December of the previous year.

The players

Margaret Atwood

A renowned Canadian author best known for her feminist classic "The Handmaid's Tale" and other acclaimed works that explore the complexities of women's lived experiences.

Graeme Gibson

Atwood's late partner of 46 years, who was also a writer and shared the domestic responsibilities with Atwood, allowing them both to pursue their creative pursuits.

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What they’re saying

“I don't do ANXIETY very well AT ALL.”

— Margaret Atwood, Author

“The thing about TRUTH and RECONCILIATION is there has to be TRUTH FIRST.”

— Margaret Atwood, Author

“What makes a GOOD ENDING depends on the STORY. And sometimes ENDINGS get OUTDATED.”

— Margaret Atwood, Author

The takeaway

Atwood's candid reflections on the creative life, personal relationships, and the human experience offer valuable insights for writers, artists, and anyone navigating the complexities of balancing professional and personal pursuits. Her willingness to confront the darker aspects of the human condition, such as the desire for revenge, underscores the depth and nuance that permeate her acclaimed body of work.