In Margaret Atwood's "Lady Oracle," the protagonist reflects on the societal perceptions surrounding name changes for men and women. The observation highlights a gender bias in how individuals are viewed based on their decision to alter their names. For men, changing a name suggests potentially nefarious intentions, often associated with deceitful or covert activities. This implies a certain distrust towards men who adopt new identities.

Conversely, the narrative implies that when women change their names, it is generally attributed to marriage, marking a more traditional and accepted reason. This disparity in perception underscores the differences in societal expectations tied to gender roles. Atwood uses this contrast to critique the broader implications of identity and how it is shaped by cultural norms.