This Author is a Masterclass in Irony

Irony is a powerful literary device that can add depth and complexity to a story. Margaret Atwood is a master of irony, and her novel The Handmaid's Tale is a prime example of how she uses it to convey her message.

In this newsletter, we'll explore how Margaret Atwood applies irony in her book and how aspiring authors can emulate her technique.

The Handmaid's Tale is set in the Republic of Gilead, a theocratic dictatorship where women are oppressed and used for their reproductive abilities. Atwood uses irony to highlight the absurdity of the regime and the attitudes of its supporters.

One example of irony in the book is the term "handmaid," which is used to refer to the protagonist and other women in similar roles. The term implies a benevolent relationship between the handmaid and her master, but in reality, the handmaids are treated as little more than breeding machines.

Another example is the phrase "blessed be the fruit," which is used by the women in Gilead as a greeting. The phrase is intended to celebrate fertility, but in a society where women are reduced to their reproductive abilities, it takes on a dark and ironic meaning.

Emulating Atwood's Technique:

As aspiring writers, we can learn from Atwood's use of irony to convey a deeper message. Here are some tips on how to emulate her technique:

1. Use irony to highlight hypocrisy: Irony can be a powerful tool to expose hypocrisy and absurdity. Look for opportunities to use irony to reveal the gap between what characters say and what they actually do.

2. Create ironic situations: Irony can also arise from situations that are unexpected or contrary to what is expected. Look for ways to create situations that subvert expectations and reveal hidden truths.

3. Use irony sparingly: While irony can be a powerful tool, it can also become tiresome if overused. Use it sparingly and strategically to maximize its impact.

Margaret Atwood's use of irony in The Handmaid's Tale is a masterclass in how to use this literary device to convey a deeper message. By studying her technique and practicing the tips outlined above, we can all learn to use irony effectively in our own writing.