In "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood, the description of the protagonist's eyes conveys a powerful sense of detachment and hostility. The imagery of the "flat hostile blue" suggests an unwelcoming demeanor, akin to a bright summer sky that feels both oppressive and isolating. This visual representation indicates a barrier between the character and those around her, reflecting a wider theme of alienation within the narrative.

The choice of words highlights the emotional temperature behind her gaze, suggesting that it's not just her eyes but her entire presence that creates distance. The blue, often associated with calmness, here takes on a chilling quality, emphasizing a complex interplay of perception and reality, where beauty becomes a mask for emotional unavailability. Atwood's keen imagery serves to enhance the reader's understanding of the character's internal struggles and the oppressive environment she inhabits.