Margaret Atwood

Margaret Atwood, acclaimed for her groundbreaking works like "The Handmaid's Tale," and Boyd Varty, a lion tracker and wildlife activist, dive into intriguing discussions. Atwood shares her insights on the creative process behind speculative fiction, connecting it to childhood experiences and poetry. Varty reveals transformative lessons from the wild, exploring themes of fear, healing, and personal growth. Their engaging narratives highlight the profound links between literature, nature, and human connection—spanning the creative spectrum from storytelling to tracking.

Margaret Atwood, a celebrated author with over 50 books to her name, discusses her dynamic creative process and the evolution of her storytelling across genres. She shares insights about growing up in nature, the impact of isolation on creativity, and the necessity of hope in addressing global challenges. The conversation touches on her character Aunt Lydia’s transformation, the importance of kindness, and the notion of 'Practical Utopias.' Atwood also reflects on contemporary issues and innovative writing methods, providing a fascinating glimpse into her world.

Margaret Atwood, the acclaimed Canadian author famous for The Handmaid's Tale, joins to discuss her new memoir and the alarming rise of book bans. She delves into the cultural impact of her work, reflecting on why her dystopian themes resonate now more than ever, especially in light of recent political events. Atwood also addresses censorship, sharing her views on free speech and the signs of totalitarianism. With wit and wisdom, she reveals how her literary career has shaped her perspectives on democracy and societal issues.

Lucy Williamson, a BBC Middle East correspondent, shares her firsthand observations from Gaza, detailing the complexities of the ongoing conflict. Acclaimed Canadian author Margaret Atwood reflects on her literary journey and the themes of her iconic work, The Handmaid's Tale. Will Grant discusses President Claudia Sheinbaum's bold stance against sexual harassment in Mexico following a public incident. Meanwhile, Peter Bowes highlights the FAA's drastic flight cuts due to a government shutdown, raising safety concerns for air travelers.

Margaret Atwood, an award-winning novelist known for The Handmaid's Tale, engages in a sharp conversation about Canadian sovereignty amid U.S. influence. She explores Canada’s historical refuge status and warns against complacency in institutional development. Discussing existential threats and the implications of automation, Atwood emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and a national reset. With surprising optimism, she celebrates Canadian resilience and the need for rejuvenated nationalism to navigate future challenges.

Margaret Atwood, a celebrated poet and author known for her influential literary contributions, shares her insights on her poem 'All Bread.' She intricately traces the journey of bread from earth to table, emphasizing its material and symbolic significance. The conversation dives into how ordinary sustenance reflects life, death, and communal sharing. Atwood prompts listeners to ponder the sacredness of bread, connecting it to our shared humanity and the deeper narratives intertwined with daily existence.

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Anne Applebaum and legendary author Margaret Atwood delve into the pressing topic of Canada's evolving identity amidst rising American authoritarianism. Applebaum argues that the democracy struggle isn't temporary, while Atwood reflects on historical U.S.-Canada dynamics and the dangers of becoming the 51st state. Both emphasize the need for renewed Canadian institutions and identity, cautioning against divisiveness. Their insights sketch a future where Canada can thrive by embracing its unique strengths and diversifying its response to external pressures.

In this engaging discussion, acclaimed novelist Margaret Atwood delves into the captivating origins of her iconic work, The Handmaid's Tale. She reflects on her experiences in Cold War-era East Berlin and the political climate of the 1980s that shaped Gilead. Atwood analyzes the significance of Offred's name, the role of women's agency, and the eerie parallels to today's society. With insights into Puritan roots and the complexities of societal control, she masterfully connects her timeless themes to modern political realities.

Margaret Atwood joins Deborah Treisman in a live podcast to read and discuss Mavis Gallant's 'Varieties of Exile'. They explore the emotional impact on Americans tied to Gaza, share anecdotes about meeting Mavis Gallant, discuss book condition and reading habits, explore the experiences of remittance men, reflect on Frank Cairns and his socialist beliefs, and delve into loss and forgetfulness in 'Varieties of Exile'. They also discuss Mavis Gallant's autobiographical stories and Lynette Muir's relationships with remittance men and Frank Cairns.

Margaret Atwood reads 'A Stranger' by Saeed Jones and discusses loss, memory, and the afterlife. They explore poetry's emotional depth, the writing process, and managing time during the pandemic. The episode also promotes works by the authors and The New Yorker Radio Hour.