Joke Quote by Margaret Atwood
““Why is war so much like a practical joke? she thinks. Hiding behind bushes, leaping out, with not much difference between Boo! and Bang! except the blood.””
About This Quote
Source novel: The Handmaid’s Tale, 1985
War is likened to a cruel prank, with sudden violence hidden behind innocuous settings, underscoring its senselessness.
In simple terms: War is a cruel, hidden joke.
Recognize the absurdity of conflict.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- military strategy
- media coverage
- political discourse
- education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humor affect perception of war?
- Can satire drive anti‑war sentiment?
Comparing war to jokes can trivialize suffering.