Symbolism and Imagery - The Handmaid's Tale utilizes specific outfits to represent different social classes within the totalitarian regime, drawing inspiration from historical and cultural symbols [1][2] - Red is used for the Handmaids, referencing Mary Magdalene and the Scarlet Letter, while blue is associated with the wives, symbolizing the Virgin Mary [2] - The author was traumatized by the old Dutch cleanser box of the 1940s as a child, which influenced the bonnet design [1] Sociopolitical Commentary - The author chose Harvard University as a central location to highlight the potential for totalitarianism to emerge even in the heart of liberal America [2][3][4] - The narrative draws inspiration from various totalitarian regimes throughout history, emphasizing that "it can happen here" [4] - The story explores the mechanisms by which totalitarian regimes establish themselves [1][4] Author's Intent - The author aimed to demonstrate that totalitarianism is not unique to specific countries or times, but can arise under certain circumstances [4] - The author was interested in totalitarianisms and how they get that way [4]