Luke's Fate

Offred's multiple versions of Luke's fate, reflecting her hope and despair.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Luke Dead

Luke Dead The Image Offred imagines Luke lying face down in a thicket, shot. She sees his clothes, his plaid shirt, his work boots. She prays the bullet went through his skull quickly. The Acceptance Offred believes this version because it is easier. She can mourn and move on. But she cannot be sure. The Guilt Offred feels guilty for not knowing. She wonders if she could have saved him. The uncertainty is a form of torture.

Luke Imprisoned

Luke Imprisoned The Prisoner Offred imagines Luke in a gray cement room, unshaven, beaten. He doesn't know what he is accused of. She hopes he is still alive. The Message Offred believes that if Luke is alive, he will send her a message. She waits for it. The message keeps her going. The Contradiction Offred knows this version may be false, but she believes it anyway. She needs to believe in his survival to endure.

Luke Escaped

Luke Escaped The Crossing Offred imagines Luke swimming the river, reaching the far shore. He is taken in by Quakers, smuggled to safety. He makes contact with the resistance. The Reunion Offred believes that one day Luke will come for her. They will find their daughter and be together. This hope is what keeps her alive. The Impossibility Offred knows all three versions cannot be true, but she believes them all. She must be ready for whatever the truth is.

Offred's belief during the narrative

another belief of Offred's

Offred's third belief