The opening line of Margaret Atwood's novel "The Blind Assassin" introduces a personal tragedy, hinting at a dramatic event that occurs shortly after a significant conflict. The mention of the protagonist's sister, Laura, driving off a bridge conveys a sense of despair and loss, implicitly connecting personal events to the broader consequences of war.

This line sets the tone for the intricate narrative that explores themes of memory, trauma, and the impacts of historical events on individual lives. It suggests that the aftermath of war can deeply affect familial relationships and individual choices, intertwining personal and collective histories in a poignant way.