"I pray where I am, sitting by the window, looking out through the curtain at the empty garden. I don't even close my eyes. Out there or inside my head, it's an equal darkness. Or light" (194).
Offred does not close her eyes because figuratively, she sees the same thing whether she closes her eyes or keeps them open. Darkness is not only the absence of light but it usually represents evil or fear. In this way, Atwood is saying that the world of Gilead is evil and scary just like the darkness Offred sees when she closes her eyes. Light is usually used to symbolize good and hope but Atwood's use of it here is different. Because Offred is saying that the world is the same whether she closes her eyes or keeps them open, or whether she sees light or dark, it gives the impression that the situation is hopeless. The state of the society of the Republic of Gilead is at a standstill and it is hopeless.
excellent analysis .. processing down to that conclusion of hopelessness -- Atwood?
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