Margaret Atwood in her bildungsroman, Cat’s Eye, closely interweaves contemporary 1980’s Canada with memories of its corresponding post-World War II setting, juxtaposing the past and the present to explicate meaningful ideas. In the novel, the notion of importance is explored in terms of the longevity of associated consequences and the degree to which one’s perceptions may be influence as a result. The continual shift between timeframes highlights the indiscrete nature of time, calling into question its linearity and irreversibility. Through the contrast between the 40’s and 80’s, Atwood examines gender roles. Cat’s Eye also demonstrates the conflict that may exist between the social values of personal identity and social acceptance, as well as the significance of power in shaping relationships.
The multifaceted essence of time is evidenced by Atwood through her frequent narrative shifts between the past and the present. Time is portrayed to be malleable and relative, “a series of liquid transparencies” with the fluidity of water, overlapping and intersecting in its constant motion. Memories of Elaine’s past, particularly of her formative childhood experiences with Cordelia, seem to constantly lurk beneath the surface of Elaine’s consciousness, prompting her adult actions and attitudes. During her interview with Andrea, Elaine hears the voice of Cordelia reprimanding her to “sit up straight,” demonstrating the depth of impact of her childhood peers’ scrutiny on her insecure and self-critical disposition. The concept of time is personalised in Cat’s Eye, and seen to manifest multiple “dimensions”, through which we can not only step forwards, but also “[step] sideways.” In order to escape her anxiety, Elaine would deliberately faint, “steeping… out of time or into another time,” one which provided her with a mental respite from her friend’s relentless psychological torment. The city of Toronto encapsulates the nature of Stephen’s concept of a “universe of two...