In "The Handmaid's Tale," Margaret Atwood presents a chilling vision of a dystopian society where women are stripped of their rights and autonomy. The narrator evokes a sense of helplessness, comparing herself to a piece of toast, flat and vulnerable, as she lies on her bed. This imagery emphasizes her oppression and the loss of identity within a rigid social structure.

The protagonist's situation reflects the broader themes of control and subjugation. The metaphor of being buttered highlights the way society attempts to cover or mask the harsh realities of her life, leaving her in a state of despair yet highlighting her resilience and consciousness amidst the oppressive environment.