In "The Handmaid's Tale," Margaret Atwood presents a dystopian society where women are stripped of their identities and reduced to their reproductive capabilities. The protagonist, the Handmaid, navigates a world that devalues her as an individual, articulating a profound sense of alienation. Her experience reflects the collective struggle faced by women in oppressive regimes, emphasizing the need for personal agency and identity amidst societal control.

The quote, "I am a blank, here, between parentheses. Between other people," captures the essence of her disconnection. It signifies her feeling of being overshadowed and invisible, existing in a state of limbo defined by others. This sentiment resonates deeply within the narrative, showcasing the impact of a totalitarian environment that denies personal significance and autonomy, making her journey toward reclaiming her identity increasingly critical.