Margaret Atwood

Biography

Margaret Atwood (born 1939) is a Canadian poet, novelist, literary critic, and environmental activist, celebrated for her profound contributions to contemporary literature. Born in Ottawa, Ontario, she grew up in a family that encouraged curiosity and creativity, moving frequently across Canada due to her father’s work. This exposure to different landscapes and communities deeply influenced her writing, often reflecting themes of identity, survival, and societal critique.

Atwood’s career spans more than six decades, during which she has authored novels, poetry, essays, and critical works. She gained international recognition with The Handmaid’s Tale (1985), a dystopian novel exploring themes of power, gender, and oppression, which has since become a cultural touchstone. Other notable works include Cat’s Eye, Oryx and Crake, and the MaddAddam trilogy, which often combine speculative fiction with sharp social commentary.

Her writing is characterized by incisive insight, imaginative storytelling, and a commitment to exploring issues such as feminism, ecology, and human rights. Atwood has received numerous awards, including the Booker Prize, and her work has been translated into multiple languages, cementing her status as one of the most influential contemporary writers. Beyond her literary achievements, she is also an advocate for environmental conservation and social justice, using her platform to address pressing global issues.