In her work "Second Words: Selected Critical Prose," Margaret Atwood emphasizes the intrinsic value of the human voice. She suggests that the ability to speak is a precious gift that should be appreciated and utilized to communicate in the most genuine and expressive manner. Through vocal expression, individuals can share their thoughts, emotions, and experiences, enriching human interaction and understanding.

Atwood further connects the themes of powerlessness and silence, indicating that when people lack a voice, they often feel ignored or marginalized. The ability to articulate one's thoughts is crucial for empowerment, and losing that ability leads to a sense of helplessness. Thus, she advocates for the importance of using one's voice to foster meaningful dialogue and assert one's existence in society.