In the 1960’s, the ‘rules’ for society’s cultural mores were very different from today. Margaret Atwood’s first published novel, The Edible Woman was written 1965. In her own cutting and yet humorous way, she delves into these rigid mores. Each character, not especially likeable to me, had their own role to play. Marian, the central figure, is caught in the middle of living by the expected and confined rules and wanting to live her life very differently. Peter, her lover and fiancé, is portrayed in the rigid male model of the time. Ainsley, Marian’s roommate, is taking life in her own way and changing the rules. Duncan, a misfit with two roommates, challenges anything remotely normal. Marian is attracted to him, does not know why, yet continues to cling to him in secret.
Consumerism, feminism, body image and vegetarianism are all part of this classic and complex story. I did not immediately recognize the humor in this story, however as the it unfolded, I laughed out loud. The entanglements, both literally and figuratively, sliced through Marian’s confusion and sadness at the most unexpected moments. Hiding under a bed with dust bunnies all around. Climbing over hedges. Activities that definitely go against any social norm. Our discussion at our book group picked and poked through all the issues and relationships and found that it indeed was a good read.
“She’s against it on principle, and life isn’t
run on principles but by adjustments.”
~ Margaret Atwood, The Edible Woman
Title: The Edible Woman
Author: Margaret Atwood
Publisher: McClelland & Stewart, Inc. (1969)
Copyright: 1969
Format: Soft Cover
ISBN: 0-770-42822-3
Type: Fiction
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