Offred returns to a relatively normal life (or what can be “salvaged” from a normal life). She’s brought a school child's lunch (reminding us of their infantilization, again). She revels in it (instead of “relishing” in it; I can see Atwood at her computer trying to decide which of the words to use). After the morning’s events, she’s glad to be back to a regular routine. She goes shopping with Ofglen. But it’s not the Ofglen she knows. It’s a new one. She tries not to show her shock but she also wants to know a) what happened to the old Ofglen and b) if the new one is sympathetic to the Mayday cause. When asking if Ofglen was transferred, the new one says, “I am Ofglen.” Offred says to herself that not ever knowing the former Ofglen’s real name is problematic since she’ll never be able to find her. This anonymity is an effective tool, the reader can conclude. It breaks people up in the immediate and in the future. No chance for friendships or for joining up for a...