TL;DR
Margaret Atwood, now 86, spoke on this week’s episode of The Big Interview about doomscrolling, her newly published memoir Book of Lives, and current political topics including Elon Musk and resistance efforts. She said she reads bad news to "keep up with the latest doom" while expressing continued hope for America's future.
What happened
On the latest episode of The Big Interview, author Margaret Atwood addressed how she engages with news and public life late in her career. Atwood—whose work spans speculative fiction, poetry and children’s books and who is best known for The Handmaid’s Tale—described a tendency to doomscroll, saying she wants to stay abreast of troubling developments even as she processes them. The conversation also touched on public figures such as Elon Musk, themes of political resistance, and Atwood’s outlook for America. The interview coincides with the release of her memoir Book of Lives, in which she documents her early years in the Canadian wilderness, her professional beginnings, and personal reckonings. The episode presents Atwood reflecting on both cultural and political currents while situating those observations alongside her recent life-writing.
Why it matters
- Atwood remains an influential cultural voice whose observations link literature with contemporary political and technological debates.
- Her admission of doomscrolling highlights how prominent cultural figures consume and respond to continuous news cycles.
- The new memoir offers a personal context for Atwood’s public commentary and could shape interpretations of her past work.
- Discussion of high-profile figures and political resistance signals ongoing intersections between technology, power and civic life.
Key facts
- Margaret Atwood is 86 years old.
- She appeared on this week’s episode of The Big Interview.
- Atwood said she reads bleak news to "keep up with the latest doom."
- Topics mentioned in the interview include Elon Musk and political resistance.
- Her recently published memoir is titled Book of Lives.
- Atwood’s body of work spans speculative fiction, poetry and children’s books.
- She is the author of The Handmaid’s Tale.
What to watch next
- Listen to the full episode of The Big Interview for the complete conversation and context around her comments.
- not confirmed in the source: whether Atwood will discuss these topics in additional interviews or public events.
- not confirmed in the source: where or when the episode will be posted beyond this week's broadcast.
Quick glossary
- Doomscrolling: The habit of continuously consuming negative news online, often leading to anxiety or fatigue.
- Memoir: A written account of the author’s personal experiences and reflections on their life.
- Speculative fiction: A genre that imagines alternative realities, futures or worlds to explore social, political or philosophical ideas.
- Political resistance: Actions or movements aimed at opposing or challenging established political power or policies.
- The Big Interview: A media program or episode format in which public figures are interviewed about their work and views (as referenced in the source).
Reader FAQ
What did Atwood say about doomscrolling?
She said she wants to "keep up with the latest doom," indicating she follows troubling news even when it is upsetting.
What else did she discuss on The Big Interview?
She discussed Elon Musk, political resistance, hope for America’s future, and her memoir Book of Lives.
Is she promoting a new book?
Yes. The interview coincides with the recent publication of her memoir Book of Lives.
How long has Atwood been writing?
She has spent most of her life writing across genres, from speculative fiction to poetry and children’s books.
Will she appear again to expand on these topics?
not confirmed in the source
KATIE DRUMMOND CULTURE JAN 6, 2026 6:30 AM Margaret Atwood on Doomscrolling: ‘I Want to Keep Up With the Latest Doom’ On this week’s episode of The Big Interview, the…
Sources
- Margaret Atwood on Doomscrolling: ‘I Want to Keep Up With the Latest Doom’
- BIG INTV: Margaret Atwood on Doomscrolling: 'I Want to …
- Wired.com: «Margaret Atwood on Doomscrolling: 'I Want to …
- Digital Dystopia – Interview With Margaret Atwood
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