In Margaret Atwood's 'Surfacing', the author's reflection on her father's saying about skinning a cat reveals her discomfort and confusion. The phrase suggests that there are multiple methods to achieve a goal, yet the imagery of skinning a cat raises ethical concerns for her. This juxtaposition highlights the complexity of traditional sayings and the underlying messages they convey about life and choices.
The narrator's reaction underscores a broader theme of the book: the struggle to reconcile practical wisdom with personal values. Atwood uses this moment to illustrate the tension between familial wisdom and individual morality, prompting readers to consider how language shapes our perceptions and decisions in life.