"The Edible Woman" by Margaret Atwood explores the complex relationship between personal identity and societal expectations, particularly regarding women's roles. The quote raises the issue of how having a baby is often seen as a choice that can conflict with career ambitions, especially in environments like art galleries. It challenges the binary thinking that women face, where they must choose between personal fulfillment and professional success.

Atwood suggests that this perspective limits women’s experiences and ignores the possibility of integrating both aspects into a whole life. Instead of viewing life in terms of either/or decisions, the author advocates for embracing wholeness that honors both motherhood and career. This notion calls for a reevaluation of how society perceives women's choices and emphasizes the importance of finding balance in their multifaceted lives.