Second Words

Fifty of Margaret Atwood's finest essays and reviews from 1960 to 1982 are included in this collection of her key critical writings. Wit and originality infuse discussions of the writing process, literary life, and such literary figures as Adrienne Rich, Northrop Frye, Anne Sexton, and E. L. Doctorow. Atwood's perspectives on Canadian nationalism and the American dream emerge, as do her controversial attitudes about feminism, sexism, and contemporary North American life. This largest collection of her critical prose showcases the human insight and sharp intellect that has distinguished Atwood as one of the most compelling writers of the 21st century.

Margaret Atwood is the award-winning author of more than 25 books, including The Blind Assassin, The Handmaid's Tale, and Oryx and Crake. She was the winner of the 2000 Booker Prize. She has contributed to The New York Times Book Review, The Nation, The Washington Post, The Harvard Educational Review, and Maclean's.