In "The Handmaid's Tale," the protagonist experiences deep physical and emotional fatigue, which manifests throughout her body, particularly in her legs and eyes. This exhaustion symbolizes the toll that oppression and strife take on her spirit, ultimately leading her to question her beliefs and resilience.

The statement about faith being merely an embroidered word captures the idea that faith can sometimes feel superficial or hollow in the face of overwhelming adversity. It suggests that while faith may provide solace, it can also feel disconnected from the harsh realities one faces, emphasizing the struggle between hope and despair.