How furious she must be, now that she's been taken at her word.
The quote reflects a deep sense of anger and betrayal experienced by a character, likely in a moment of realization about their circumstances. It suggests that someone took her statements or intentions at face value, which has resulted in unforeseen consequences. This theme resonates throughout the narrative, where personal agency is often compromised, and characters grapple with the repercussions of their words and societal expectations.
In "The Handmaid's Tale," Margaret Atwood explores the intricacies of power dynamics and the impact of a dystopian society on individual identity. The quote highlights the conflict between expressed desires and the harsh realities imposed by an oppressive regime, emphasizing the emotional turmoil that ensues. The character's fury stems from being a pawn in a larger system, forced to confront the consequences of their sincerity in a world that manipulates truth.