11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 1/43

LitChat: Margaret Atwood, AuthorThe following is the #LitChat conversation held through Twitter on November 30, 2015 with bestselling

and critically acclaimed author Margaret Atwood. #LitChat was founded in 2009 and is moderated by

Carolyn Burns Bass (@LitChat). www.litchat.com.

by LitChat a minute ago

LITCHAT @LITCHAT · 9 HOURS AGO

We're thrilled to have @MargaretAtwood as guest host of #LitChat today at 4pmET. ow.ly/VgjnC

pic.twitter.com/68OhyxNHCV

LitChat@LitChat

2 HOURS AGO

Welcome to #LitChat. Today's guest host is critically acclaimed and bestselling author@MargaretAtwood.

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

While #LitChat is underway with moderated convo from 4­5pmET, please don't use the hashtagunless contributing to topic. Thanks.

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 2/43

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

The easiest way to participate in #LitChat is through @Nurph. Just login at nurph.com/litchat,authorize and you're in the chat.

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

#LitChat was founded in 2009 and is moderated by @CarolyBurnsBass (@LitChat). Visit ourwebsite at litchat.com.

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

While everyone is gathering, please introduce yourself and let the convo begin. #LitChat

Keith Welch@Outraged_Poet

2 HOURS AGO

MS. Atwood, I was wondering...for you, was the ending of Maddaddam optimistic, orpessimistic? #LitChat

Jorie Loves A Story@joriestory

AN HOUR AGO

Hallo, hallo LitChattics ­ how is everyone this last November day of Autumn? Looking forwardto chatting w/ @MargaretAtwood :) #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

We are so thrilled to have @MargaretAtwood with us today. She's a superstar author & greatperson. Welcome Margaret to #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 3/43

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

Hi @LitChat and @MargaretAtwood! Sophfronia checking in for #LitChat

Keith Welch@Outraged_Poet

AN HOUR AGO

Keith here, in Bloomington, IN #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@Sophfronia @LitChat @LitChat Have we now begun? How do I post this? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

Ok I figured it out... I hit Return, right? #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

Yes, @MargaretAtwood, you've got it! #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Looks like you've hit the spot. Yep, just a return and your tweet hits the feed.(Not the fan.) #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 4/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

OK ask me anything (almost) #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

. @MargaretAtwood The nurph will automatically add the LitChat hashtag for you. #LitChat

Sam Butler@sam__butler

AN HOUR AGO

So excited about this! @LitChat @MargaretAtwood #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

Should earlier questions now be re­posted so I can answer them? :) #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

We're going to talk mostly about writing and reading, but first, let's go back a bit. What was yourfavorite childhood book? #LitChat

James Knight@badbadpoet

AN HOUR AGO

.@MargaretAtwood is there a book by someone else that you wish you had written? #litchat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 5/43

Skye Wentworth@Skyeblue

AN HOUR AGO

#LitChat Thanks for inviting me. #LitChat

Keith Welch@Outraged_Poet

AN HOUR AGO

I repost: Ms. Atwood, I was wondering...for you, was the ending of Maddaddam optimistic, orpessimistic? #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

I think we're ok. No earlier questions. RT @MargaretAtwood Should earlier questions now be re­posted so I can answer them? :) #LitChat

Abby Engerson@AbigailEngerson

AN HOUR AGO

Hello! thanks for the invite #LitChat

Xach Fromson@_mythogenesis_

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood What's your criteria for picking up a book by a new (to you) author, whenyou're looking for for a new book to read?#LitChat

Elizabeth MW@analyticeye

AN HOUR AGO

@LitChat @MargaretAtwood what's been the biggest surprise/revelation/reversal for you re:working with @wattpad? #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 6/43

Elissa Sussman@ElissaSussman

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood What is the book that made you fall in love with reading? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

I had a lot, depending on what part of childhood. Beatrix Potter + Grimms when quite young,then E. Nesbitt, then Sherlock Holmes.. #LitChat

Anderson Center@ANDCTR

AN HOUR AGO

Hello Ms. Atwood. Rosanne from BInghamton, NY I would like to know if you have any quirkythings that you have to do when writing? #LitChat

Ellen Degenerate@ZacharyNB

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Were you inspired by any Romantic poets? If so, which ones, and whataspects of their work do you most enjoy? #LitChat

Roxie Ablett@roxalox88

AN HOUR AGO

Hi, @MargaretAtwood Did you have Offred's 'real' name in mind whilst writing TheHandmaid's Tale? If so, can you share it? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@roxalox88 : I actually didn't, but readers have since figured out (using deduction) that it musthave been June. #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 7/43

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood I can see all of those influences in your writing. #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

There are quite a few questions now in the feed for @MargaretAtwood, so let's give her time toscroll back and answer/ #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@ANDCTR: I wish. But coffee's about it. I don't like anyone else using my computer, but that'shardly quirky. I doodle a lot. #LitChat

Elizabeth@myushen

AN HOUR AGO

Want to ask Ms Atwood a question? Here's a great chance. #LitChat twitter.com/litchat/status…

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

. @LitChat @MargaretAtwood Yes, all those influences. I bet you were into the original, darkGrimm tales. I liked those. #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 8/43

WHHS LIBRARY @WHHS_LIBRARY · AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood: do you know this is the picture they use in high school literature anthologies?

#LitChat pic.twitter.com/JPIrK6ymhx

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

AN HOUR AGO

Hi, I'm a translator from Lviv, Ukraine. An admirer for Robert Herrick #LitChat

Ale Johnson@AleTheEditor

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Do you have to consciously alter your writing to be descriptive and engaging,or does it come naturally? #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 9/43

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

AN HOUR AGO

Hi #LitChat and @MargaretAtwood! So nice to see you here. I had the pleasure of hearing youspeak at AWP in Chicago a few yrs ago.

Dominique@dom_dif

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood what advice would you give to your 18 year old self? #LitChat

tim@librariman

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood what are you currently reading? What did you think of the Sex Criminalscomic book series? #LitChat

Jorie Loves A Story@joriestory

AN HOUR AGO

@Sophfronia @LitChat @MargaretAtwood For me the darker Grimm reflected their tales themore I walked into re­tellings more directly #LitChat

Meredith Whitfield@hashtagmsw

AN HOUR AGO

.@MargaretAtwood What's your favorite rationale behind choosing one (or more!) of yourcharacters' names? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@ZacharyNB: Big Coleridge fan; in The Blind Assassin, a little homage. Loved Keats, didn't likeWW when young, have come round. #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 10/43

LITCHAT @LITCHAT · AN HOUR AGO

RT @WHHS_Library This one is now on @MargaretAtwood 's website: pic.twitter.com/31BWmQRdTx

#LitChat pic.twitter.com/tcz2yZcLzQ

Jorie Loves A Story@joriestory

AN HOUR AGO

@Sophfronia @LitChat Although, if I were to think on it, my brief readings of @MargaretAtwooddid paint reality quite darkly Hmm #LitChat

Eleanor Hirst@elleanorwears

AN HOUR AGO

Loving reading #LitChat with Margaret Atwood right now

Roxie Ablett@roxalox88

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Interesting ­ I'll have to read up on how they got June! Thanks for replying!#LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 11/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@hashtagmsw: So complex! 1. appropriate for chrtr + time+ place; 2. Saint's name? Saint ofwhat? 3. Can't be in the phone book. #LitChat

Torey Krepps@toreykrepps

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood What was your biggest influence in writing Oryx and Crake? #LitChat

Bobbi Jo Erichsen@BjErichsen

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood What radio station do you listen to? What kind of music do you like?#LitChat

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

AN HOUR AGO

@LitChat Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe #LitChat

Jorie Loves A Story@joriestory

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Did your readings of Holmes purport an keen interest in rooting outsociological observations in fiction? #LitChat

Emily Croy Barker@EmilyCroyBarker

AN HOUR AGO

Guys, @MargaretAtwood is on #LitChat RIGHT NOW. twitter.com/LitChat/status…

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 12/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@librariman:Haha, funny! (SexCrims) Reading lots of things.. the Giller shortlist, the NewYOrker 1940s collection (I was there). #LitChat

Vicki Ziegler@bookgaga

AN HOUR AGO

You've surely been asked everything in chats & interviews, @MargaretAtwood. What was thelast question to throw you for a loop? #LitChat

LaurenBaratzLogsted@LaurenBaratzL

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood As the inventor of the LongPen, do you have any other inventions we don'tknow about? #LitChat

York Underwood@YorkUnderwood

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Is it ok to be negative? Is it ok? Can it help writing? Is attempting to bepositive all the time actually good? #LitChat

Maury Feinsilber@mauryfeinsilber

AN HOUR AGO

What do you know now, writing­wise, that the you of twenty years ago didn't even know to askor ponder? #litchat twitter.com/MargaretAtwood…

Eleanor Hirst@elleanorwears

AN HOUR AGO

Any authors you particularly admire for what they stood/stand for? @MargaretAtwood#LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 13/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@joriestory: Loved the stuff about clothing! And boots. Like Dickens, folks loved him 'cause heSAW them + put them in fiction. #LitChat

Ellen Degenerate@ZacharyNB

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood On another note, have you read Tennyson's Lady of Shalott? Curious toknow what you think of that. #LitChat

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood What is your favourite English dictionary? #LitChat

Meredith Whitfield@hashtagmsw

AN HOUR AGO

.@MargaretAtwood W/Maddaddam's HBO adaptation (!), how do you feel abt rise of dystopianfiction as vogue material for film & TV? #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood The questions are coming in quickly. Just take your time. You can scroll backto see which one's you've missed. #LitChat

Sam Butler@sam__butler

AN HOUR AGO

What's the longest period of 'writers block' you've ever experienced? Do you have any methods toovercome it? @MargaretAtwood #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 14/43

Jorie Loves A Story@joriestory

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood I admit, the clothes held me at hallo too. Yes I could see that appeal ­ areflective reality that is recognisable #LitChat

CL Black@BylineBlack

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Considering the depth/breadth of your career, are you able to view your workwithout an inner critic's voice? #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

Good advice! MT @LitChat @MargaretAtwood The questions are coming in quickly. Just takeyour time. You can scroll back... #LitChat

Easy Cheveezy@JCheval

AN HOUR AGO

What's your drink of choice @MargaretAtwood? #litchat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@ZacharyNB: I've read ALL of Tennyson. Was once a Victorianist. See homage in Lady Oracle.#LitChat

RobynMcIntyre@robynmcintyre

AN HOUR AGO

The questions are coming so fast and furious, I'm nearly afraid to jump in lest I be swept away,LOL #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 15/43

PBR@RossTime

AN HOUR AGO

What does it feel like when you sit down to write? Is it still a thrill to come up with words? Howdo you maintain your passion? #LitChat

Sammy@TheSammyLife

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Who is your favourite character your have written? And why? :) #LitChat

G.A.Taylor@GATaylor3

AN HOUR AGO

.@MargaretAtwood What advice would you give an aspiring author? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@JCheval: Single malt, no water, no ice. Good for the throat germs. Scots called whiskey TheWater of Life. :) #LitChat

RobynMcIntyre@robynmcintyre

AN HOUR AGO

Q: What is your biggest consideration in writing: theme, plot, or characterization? #LitChat

DeAnn Smith@DeAnnSmithkc

AN HOUR AGO

Wow. Choosing between Nancy Drew, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Trixie Belden and Oz series superhard. #LitChat twitter.com/LitChat/status…

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 16/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@TheSammyLife:Read&read. Write&write. You can throw it out, but keep those words flowing.You can't sing if you don't practice. #LitChat

Gabriella Pounds@gabriellapounds

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood You seem in engaged in contemporary debates on Islam/Muslims inCanada­ could this be a futre novel topic? #LitChat

Claire Bennett@ClaireB645

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood What would you say to weirdos like me who base their uni work onsurrealism in Oryx & Crake and Handmaid's Tale? #litchat

Jorie Loves A Story@joriestory

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Your writings are particularly bent towards revealing bits of humanity somemight rather keep hidden; sharper edges #LitChat

Mary Vensel White@mvw888

AN HOUR AGO

Happening now, people: @MargaretAtwood Taking people to school on #LitChat, LOL.twitter.com/MargaretAtwood…

Ellen Degenerate@ZacharyNB

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Thanks! We covered fishhook & tricks with mirrors in Cdn. Modernism classat Mount Allison today­­Deeply Inspiring #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 17/43

Tyler Hixson@thixson95

AN HOUR AGO

.@MargaretAtwood advice for writers. Applies to any form of expression. Cool to hear herthoughts in #LitChat twitter.com/margaretatwood…

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@BylineBlack: Others happy to do that for me. :) I swim hard to keep my head above water. Noneed to see what's dragging you down. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@jarisleif: It's still the Shorter Oxford. THough I have a bunch of them. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@hashtagmsw: A surprise to me.. these things come in waves, but right now I think it's youngfolks' uneasiness about the future.. #LitChat

Mary Vensel White@mvw888

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood If someone has never read your work and wanted to know where to start,which book would you point them to? #LitChat

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood @BylineBlack That's great advice! #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 18/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@sam__butler: I don't get writers' block as such, but if I get stuck on something I switch andwork on something else. Try it! #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@gabriellapounds: Maybe not for me, but it's bound to come up in literature. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@TheSammyLife: Oh I would never say. The rest would be very cheesed off. #LitChat

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

AN HOUR AGO

@mvw888 @MargaretAtwood My personal favorite is The Blind Assassin. #LitChat

Erin Kilkenny@erinincolumbus

AN HOUR AGO

Margaret Atwood's advice to young writers! #LitChat twitter.com/MargaretAtwood…

Sammy@TheSammyLife

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Of course they would! :P Okay then, who is your favourite character thatyou've read? #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 19/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@mauryfeinsilber:I appreciate copy­editors more, because a good one keeps you from makingawful howlers. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@bookgaga: I was surprised the other day in #Guelph by a solitary bee in a box. (My dad didwork in such bees.) #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@mvw888: I would ask them their preferences. Historical? Alias Grace or Blind A. Future?#HMTale or #MaddAddam. Etc. #LitChat

Anthony Madigan@anthonymadigan

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood When you write about an alternative society/future, do you draw up ‘rules’first or create them as you go #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

I love this! So, so true. Gotta read, gotta write. Rinse, repeat. Always. #LitChattwitter.com/MargaretAtwood…

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

RT @MargaretAtwood @mauryfeinsilber:I appreciate copy­editors more, because a good onekeeps you from making awful howlers. #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 20/43

Bob@oneshotbobby

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood what would your extinct animal name be? #litchat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@toreykrepps: Robinson Crusoe in the bg. New Scientist in the fg. Rats Lice and History.#LitChat

Alix Hawley@alixhawley

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Which of your short stories has stayed with you most? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@JLyetGassman: Thnak you! #LitChat

Kristina Riggle@krisriggle

AN HOUR AGO

I'm excited and a little tongue­tied to be in the same virtual space as @MargaretAtwood . Sawyou speak in Grand Rapids, Mich. #LitChat

Bob@oneshotbobby

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood what would your extinct animal name be #litchat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 21/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@AleTheEditor: If anything I have to cut back. I edit out a lot. "Too many words, Mr. Mozart..."#LitChat

Ellen Degenerate@ZacharyNB

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood my friend published 1st book­­would be overjoyed if you could take a peekand possibly RT amzn.com/B018A4AUG6 #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@WHHS_Library: Didn't know that! Life Magazine pic w.beloved Fluffy (named by 5yr old), thobrother Blackie helped w. the writing. #LitChat

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood How much time per day do you devote to writing, on average? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@gabriellapounds: Absolutely, but so also was 20th C History. (See the Afterword). Nothing inthere we haven't done. #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

. @MargaretAtwood How do you decide whether to write a novel or a short story? Or do you tendto work on both at the same time? #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 22/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@krisriggle: Waving at Grand Rapids.. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@ZacharyNB : I saved the link + will look it up later. #LitChat

Bailey Almberg@missalmberg

AN HOUR AGO

Are you ever surprised at some theme or message that someone has pulled out of any of yourworks? #LitChat

Bailey Almberg@missalmberg

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Are you ever surprised at some theme or message that someone has pulledout of any of your works? #LitChat

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood @AleTheEditor Following Orwell's six rules? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@anthonymadigan: I start with some "rules," but others emerge from the context as it develops.#LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 23/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@Sophfronia: It's like sewing. How much material, and what can you make out of it> #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@missalmberg : Frequently! #LitChat

Torey Krepps@toreykrepps

AN HOUR AGO

@toreykrepps: @MargaretAtwood Any thoughts on the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of ahappier ending in dystopian novels? #LitChat

Bailey Almberg@missalmberg

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Craziest off the wall interpretation? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@jarisleif @AleTheEditor : Uh oh. I've forgotten what they are. :) #LitChat

DeAnn Smith@DeAnnSmithkc

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood how detailed does your first draft look like? Struggling with that #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 24/43

Michael@bookishmichael

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood would you consider yourself more of a Roz, Tony, or Charis? #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

. @MargaretAtwood I see. It depends on the fabric, its pattern and how it might be best cut.Right? #LitChat

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Have to say you were delightful at AWP. I laughed so hard. :) #LitChat

Ellen Degenerate@ZacharyNB

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood I passed this on to her­­she is so humbled and asked me to thank you! So,thank you! #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@bookishmichael: Oh I think I'm more of a Tony. Short. Pedantic. Tho' I have my Roz + Charismoments. Now where did I put my specs? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@JLyetGassman ; Thank you! #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 25/43

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

. @MargaretAtwood Also the thickness, the weave, all the possible textures. Wow, I get it.Thanks! :­) #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@DeAnnSmithkc : Messy. Very messy. Tho' less messy now that we have computers and Cut +Paste. Some mess gets concealed that way. #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

Convo with @MargaretAtwood is burning up Twitter. Thank you for being patient as she gets toyour question. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@toreykrepps : It's probably best to leave some of the characters alive at the end, don't youthink? Gives us hope. #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

She's doing great! MT @LitChat Convo with @MargaretAtwood is burning up Twitter. Thankyou for being patient as she gets to... #LitChat

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Can you share the next theme/topic that is nagging you to write about?#LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 26/43

DeAnn Smith@DeAnnSmithkc

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood which easier to write on first draft...dialogue or transitions ? Thank you foranswers #LitChat

DeAnn Smith@DeAnnSmithkc

AN HOUR AGO

Love hearing this motivating #LitChat twitter.com/MargaretAtwood…

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@oneshotbobby : Hmm. I'd have to think about that. Some sort of proto­bird, I expect. #LitChat

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

AN HOUR AGO

@LitChat @MargaretAtwood it's 11.40 pm here. Unfortunately have to leave this absorbing chatsoon #LitChat

Mary Vensel White@mvw888

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Who's the first reader of your work usually? #LitChat

Kristina Riggle@krisriggle

AN HOUR AGO

In what ways do you find the Internet age to be helpful, and/or harmful, to your authorial life?#LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 27/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@JLyetGassman: I'm working on the Hogarth Shakespeare Project. My play of choice is TheTempest. Deep into it right now.. #LitChat

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood My Last question for today, How much time on average do you devote towriting? #LitChat

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood ie, per day #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@mvw888: Usually a few people who are readers but not in The Biz; then my agents. NOT mypartner! That way sulking lies. #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

AN HOUR AGO

. @MargaretAtwood @JLyetGassman Not surprised you'd be interested in a play whereShakespeare creates a world. Awesome! #LitChat

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

AN HOUR AGO

@MargaretAtwood Thanks! That's fascinating. The 1st Shakespeare play I read was TheTempest. #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 28/43

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

Spread a Little #LitChat Love on #GivingTuesday litchat.com/spread­a­littl…

LitChat@LitChat

AN HOUR AGO

Spread a Little #LitChat Love on #GivingTuesday ­ Spread a Little #LitChat Loveon #GivingTuesdayIt’s time... tmblr.co/ZwPtDq1z4GPh_

Talks with Noreen@talkswithnoreen

AN HOUR AGO

I love to hear you talk about what being a Canadian writer was like when you started. Have youconsidered writing a book re that? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@jarisleif: It's not time, it's space. I try to do a set # of pages. (You can cheat by enlarging thetype + changing the typeface) #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@Sophfronia @JLyetGassman : There are a lot of unanswered questions in it. #LitChat

PBR@RossTime

AN HOUR AGO

What does it feel like when you sit down to write? Is it still a thrill to come up with words? Howdo you maintain your passion? #litchat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 29/43

Keith Welch@Outraged_Poet

AN HOUR AGO

What genres have you not used, that you're thinking of for the future? #LitChat

PBR@RossTime

AN HOUR AGO

(sorry to repeat myself) ;> #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

AN HOUR AGO

@DeAnnSmithkc : I haaate writing transitions. So, dialogue! #LitChat

Bailey Almberg@missalmberg

44 MINUTES AGO

What is the dystopia that is "too close to home" or "too soon" for you to create? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

44 MINUTES AGO

@LitChat : Ok what have I missed? #LitChat

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

44 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood @Sophfronia Definitely. Read it when I was 10 & felt so much pity forCaliban. Parents never censored reading! #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 30/43

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

44 MINUTES AGO

Curious to see what you do w Tempest. RT @MargaretAtwood @Sophfronia @JLyetGassman :There are a lot of unanswered questions in it. #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

44 MINUTES AGO

You're doing great! Scrolling back to check. RT @MargaretAtwood @LitChat : Ok what have Imissed? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

43 MINUTES AGO

@bookishmichael: Did you get the answer? I have the feeling some things aren't posting..#LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

43 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood @bookishmichael To the name question? I saw your answer to that one post.#LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

42 MINUTES AGO

RT @missalmberg What is the dystopia that is "too close to home" or "too soon" for you tocreate? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

42 MINUTES AGO

@JLyetGassman @Sophfronia: Mine didn;t censor reading either. We were lucky. (They didn'tknow about Peyton Place tho.) #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 31/43

RobynMcIntyre@robynmcintyre

42 MINUTES AGO

@LitChat @MargaretAtwood When writing, is your uppermost consideration theme, plot, orcharacterisation? #LitChat

DeAnn Smith@DeAnnSmithkc

42 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood woohoo! Been writing today and only dialogue flowing out. Thank you againfor #LitChat

Abby Engerson@AbigailEngerson

41 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood if you could choose 1 of your books for teachers to assign students (9­12) toread what would it be and why? #LitChat

LaurenBaratzLogsted@LaurenBaratzL

41 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood We're all ­ understandably! ­ fangirling over you in #LitChat; which livingwriters would you get excited to meet?

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

41 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood @Sophfronia Ha! A bit off­topic, but mine didn't know about TheCarpetbaggers! :) #LitChat

Easy Cheveezy@JCheval

41 MINUTES AGO

I agree! @MargaretAtwood I'd love to join you next time you imbibe! #litchat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 32/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

41 MINUTES AGO

@LitChat @missalmberg: Think I've done those! Station Eleven has something like the 1919 flutho. My mum's family survived that. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

41 MINUTES AGO

@JCheval: Sweet! #LitChat

PBR@RossTime

40 MINUTES AGO

@LitChat @MargaretAtwood I asked a Q. Is it not coming through? #LitChat Feel funny, like aa question stalker. ;)

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

39 MINUTES AGO

@AbigailEngerson: Probably Oryx and Crake. Seems to be popular at that age. Or Handmaid'sTale, ditto, tho not as much scope 4 boys #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

39 MINUTES AGO

@RossTime @LitChat : OK ask again... #LitChat

PBR@RossTime

38 MINUTES AGO

What does it feel like when you sit down to write? Is it still a thrill to come up w/words? How doyou maintain your passion? #litchat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 33/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

38 MINUTES AGO

@RossTime : OK I think I found it. Yes I still love to write. To go through that door not knowingwhat you'll find... #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

38 MINUTES AGO

@RossTime @MargaretAtwood I saw your question and was looking for her response. Thanks forreposting. #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

37 MINUTES AGO

RT this for @MargaretAtwood in case she can't see it in her stream. #LitChat twitter.com/RossTime/statu…

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

37 MINUTES AGO

@robynmcintyre @LitChat : All of the above. But themes don't come first. They emerge.#LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

37 MINUTES AGO

We have only 10 more minutes with @MargaretAtwood. If you've asked a question, but haven'tseen a response, please repost. #LitChat

lady gargoyle@rednewsom

37 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood Are there genres of fiction you feel less comfortable writing? Would you everattempt them? #LitChat #AtwoodRomZomCom2016

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 34/43

Sammy@TheSammyLife

37 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood @AbigailEngerson I'd say Handmaid's Tale would be an excellent way ofbroaching how politicised the female body is. #LitChat

Abby Engerson@AbigailEngerson

37 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood Thank you!! #LitChat

Chloe Kay@ChloeDKay

36 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood when writing historical fiction, at what point in the writing process do youresearch? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

36 MINUTES AGO

@robynmcintyre @LitChat : All of the above. But themes don't come first: they emerge as youwrite. Chrtrs + plot joined at the hip. #LitChat

PBR@RossTime

36 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood Thank you. Sorry for the snafu. I keep getting tossed off. I never want to losethe love of writing. #litchat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 35/43

JUDAH FREED @JUDAHFREED · 36 MINUTES AGO

This #WritingWednesday on #Litchat (4pmET), we will discuss traditional publishing versus indie or

self publishing. pic.twitter.com/b4gY6ayXZ5

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

36 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood @LitChat @missalmberg Kept thinking of The Stand at beginning of StationEleven. But liked Station Eleven a lot! #LitChat

Sammy@TheSammyLife

36 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood Of course they would! :P Okay then, who is your favourite character thatyou've read? #LitChat (Cheeky repost) #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

36 MINUTES AGO

@rednewsom : I'm not really a playwright. That's very specialized. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

35 MINUTES AGO

@TheSammyLife : Same answer. You think I want a bunch of slighted chrtrs on my case? :)#LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 36/43

LitChat@LitChat

34 MINUTES AGO

Only five (5) more minutes with @MargaretAtwood. Ask your questions now! #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

34 MINUTES AGO

@ChloeDKay: Write first, research after. To see if you got it right, + to keep from getting boggeddown. My way; others different. #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

34 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood What did you learn about yourself while writing THE HEART GOES LAST?#LitChat

Frida Mar@friday_empress

33 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood do you create plot boards or just go w/ the flow in your writing process?#LitChat

Easy Cheveezy@JCheval

33 MINUTES AGO

Thanks! Msg me with time and a place and I'm there! @MargaretAtwood #wateroflife #litchat#askingoutatwood

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

33 MINUTES AGO

@RossTime @MargaretAtwood Type #LitChat into search bar & it will bring you right back.

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 37/43

Amanda Blackadder@AMBlackadder

33 MINUTES AGO

@LitChat @MargaretAtwood what do you think of dystopian YA fiction? Eg Hunger Games,Divergent etc? #LitChat

Tameka (BloggerPoet)@tamstarz

33 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood I enjoyed hearing you speak recently at #BookRiot! Thank you! #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

32 MINUTES AGO

@LitChat: That I should really restrain myself from wanting to try absolutely everything. :)#LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

32 MINUTES AGO

Love the last question! RT @LitChat @MargaretAtwood What did you learn about yourself whilewriting THE HEART GOES LAST? #LitChat

LaurenBaratzLogsted@LaurenBaratzL

32 MINUTES AGO

@LitChat @MargaretAtwood I asked two but who cares??? It's been fun just reading the stream!#LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

32 MINUTES AGO

Intriguing answer! RT @MargaretAtwood @LitChat: That I should really restrain myself fromwanting to try absolutely everything. :) #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 38/43

LitChat@LitChat

32 MINUTES AGO

Share the joy of giving by donating to the #LitChat #GivingTuesday literacy campaign for@ReaderToReader. givingtuesday.razoo.com/story/Litchat­… #LitChat

RobynMcIntyre@robynmcintyre

32 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood How do you know where to start the story? #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

32 MINUTES AGO

RT @MargaretAtwood @LitChat: That I should really restrain myself from wanting to tryabsolutely everything. :) #LitChat

Yaroslav Levchenko@jarisleif

32 MINUTES AGO

Thank you @MargaretAtwood and @LitChat for the most absorbing session. #LitChat

Sammy@TheSammyLife

31 MINUTES AGO

Lol, no I don't suppose you do. Thank you for answering my questions. You're awesome! #LitChat

lady gargoyle@rednewsom

31 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood It seems like a completely different creative wiring of the brain to me!Thanks, you're a big ol' inspiration! #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 39/43

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

31 MINUTES AGO

@friday_empress: Plot boards? They sound like a good idea for others, Tried it once. Disaster.But that's me. #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

31 MINUTES AGO

Final question for @MargaretAtwood, do you read on a Kindle, Nook, iPad or other e­reader?What's your impression? #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

31 MINUTES AGO

@robynmcintyre : I don't know. I plunge in. You can always change it around. Main thing is toimmerse yourself. #LitChat

RobynMcIntyre@robynmcintyre

30 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood Thank you ­ your answer relieves my mind. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

30 MINUTES AGO

@LitChat : I've read on everything. Each platform is good for some things. Nothing's got it all.But why not both? #LitChat

PBR@RossTime

30 MINUTES AGO

Met many yrs ago in Northampton. Said something ridiculous, ie "I want 2 write like U when Igrow up." Thanks for not killing me. #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 40/43

LitChat@LitChat

29 MINUTES AGO

We're out of time with @MargaretAtwood today. She's a super­champ for keeping up with theflying questions. #LitChat

Maggie Dana@maggiedana

29 MINUTES AGO

Sorry I missed it. Margaret Atwood is a favorite author. #litchat

LitChat@LitChat

29 MINUTES AGO

Let's shout a HUGE round of THANKS to @MargaretAtwood for joining us today.APPLAUSE #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

29 MINUTES AGO

. @MargaretAtwood @LitChat I agree. I read both on paper and Kindle. #LitChat

Margaret E. Atwood@MargaretAtwood

28 MINUTES AGO

Good byyyeeee.. (Whirls up into the air like Mary Poppins) Or like.. NO WICKED WITCH OFTHE WEST JOKES, you kids. #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

28 MINUTES AGO

Yes! Great job! Thanks! RT @LitChat Let's shout a HUGE round of THANKS to@MargaretAtwood for joining us today. APPLAUSE #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 41/43

RobynMcIntyre@robynmcintyre

28 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood Thank you. Truly. #LitChat

PBR@RossTime

28 MINUTES AGO

I'm melting (Chatting here with MA) ;> #LitChat

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

27 MINUTES AGO

You're too much! Ha! MT @MargaretAtwood Good byyyeeee.. (Whirls up into the air like MaryPoppins) Or like.. NO WICKED WITCH... #LitChat

DeAnn Smith@DeAnnSmithkc

27 MINUTES AGO

So #litchat and @MargaretAtwood inspired me. Back to Elizabeth Woodville's death.#amwriting

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

27 MINUTES AGO

Thank you, @MargaretAtwood & #LitChat for a great conversation today! Enjoyed everyminute.

LitChat@LitChat

27 MINUTES AGO

Thanks also to all of you for joining @MargaretAtwood and @LitChat today. Now take her witand wisdom into your life and write! #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 42/43

Cassie@casstwts

27 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood #LitChat What is your favorite poem? If it's not one you authored, what isyour favorite poem that you wrote?

Sophfronia Scott@Sophfronia

26 MINUTES AGO

. @LitChat @MargaretAtwood Will do! Thanks again. #amwriting #LitChat

LitChat@LitChat

26 MINUTES AGO

Come back next Monday when @theAlexPalmer is here to discuss his creative nonfiction, THESANTA CLAUS MAN. #LitChat

Jeanne Lyet Gassman@JLyetGassman

25 MINUTES AGO

@MargaretAtwood Ha! There's no place like home (with your writing). Thanks again. Have agood week! #LitChat

11/30/2015 LitChat: Margaret Atwood, Author

https://storify.com/LitChat/litchat-margaret-atwood-author.html 43/43

LITCHAT @LITCHAT · 18 MINUTES AGO

Thank you, @MargaretAtwood for your generosity of time and talent. Wishing you a wonderful

holiday season. #LitChat pic.twitter.com/9u2FA1MZKw