In Margaret Atwood's collection "Stone Mattress: Nine Tales," the author reflects on how certain themes and narratives that were once considered groundbreaking may now seem mild or lacking in intensity. Atwood mentions that while stories like Violet's were pivotal in their time, they lack the graphic violence and disturbing events that are often part of modern storytelling, such as explicit torture or sexual violence.

This comparison highlights a shift in societal expectations for literature, where the boundaries of what is deemed shocking have evolved. Atwood's observation raises questions about the nature of storytelling and what audiences seek in terms of excitement and engagement, suggesting that contemporary narratives often push limits further than before.