Dead flowers Quote by Margaret Atwood
““The reason they want to see me is that I am a celebrated murderess. Or that is what has been written down. When I first saw it I was surprised, because they say Celebrated Singer and Celebrated Poetess and Celebrated Spiritualist and Celebrated Actress, but what is there to celebrate about murder? All the same, Murderess is a strong word to have attached to you. It has a smell to it, that word—musky and oppressive, like dead flowers in a vase. Sometimes at night I whisper it over to myself: Murderess, Murderess. It rustles, like a taffeta skirt across the floor.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Handmaid's Tale, 1985
The narrator reflects on being labeled a "celebrated murderess," exploring the weight and darkness of such a title.
In simple terms: She grapples with a dark, celebrated label.
Key Takeaway
Question the meaning of fame.
Themes
identity
celebration
darkness
language
Mood
thoughtful
introspective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- public scrutiny
- self‑talk
- creative writing
- performance art
Key Concepts
celebrity
moral ambiguity
self‑perception
Questions to Reflect On
- What does "celebrated" imply?
- How does language shape self‑image?
A Different Perspective
The title may glorify violence.
