The Hidden Clue in The Handmaid’s Tale’s First Scene That Spoiled the Ending All Along

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In the initial scene of “The Handmaid’s Tale,” portrayed by Elisabeth Moss as Offred, these are the first spoken words: “There’s a chair, a table, a lamp, and a window with white drapes.” These simple items carry immense significance in the story, appearing both at the beginning and end of the series.

Reflecting now, upon revisiting the initial season of that spine-tingling series, it’s evident that there were subtle foreshadowings we overlooked in the crucial moments preceding it. These seemingly innocuous instances, which some may have noticed or opted to revisit and spot today, essentially revealed how the show’s ending was foreshadowed from its very start.

The Subtle But Impactful Hint

In the initial episode of Season 1 for “The Handmaid’s Tale,” titled “Offred,” a distressing sequence unfolds as soldiers from Gilead apprehend June, Luke (O-T Fagbenle), and their daughter Hannah. June loses consciousness during capture and is carried into the back of a truck. Jumping ahead to the current day, we find June perched on the windowsill in her room within the Waterford household, wearing the traditional handmaid garb. Prior to narrating these events, you can subtly hear a click – this sound comes from June’s tape recorder as she sits exactly where she is now, years later, recording her life experiences.

In the concluding episode of Season 6, specifically Episode 10 titled “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Gilead collapses in Boston due to June’s actions and the dedication of the Mayday group. Many who had oppressed June are now absent. Those that remain show regret for their past deeds. While she has a newfound freedom, there is much more she must battle for. Primarily, her focus remains on reuniting with her daughter Hannah (Jordana Blake) who is currently in someone else’s care.

When Holly (Cherry Jones), her mother, heard about June’s plans, she strongly suggested that she should consider writing a book based on her personal narrative. Given that June was once a journalist, it seemed fitting to channel her talent for storytelling into this endeavor. Sharing her unique experiences might not only bring healing for herself but also provide valuable insights and inspiration for others.

In this context, Holly’s remark underscores a significant shift in her perception towards June’s career, as earlier, Holly appeared dismissive of it. However, now she appreciates the importance of June’s work in resisting oppression. This sentiment is particularly poignant considering that women in Gilead were once barred from reading and writing entirely. In essence, this moment serves as a powerful demonstration of June reclaiming her voice after being silenced under Gilead’s rule.

She makes her way back to the deteriorated Waterford residence. Climbing the steps, she enters her old room filled with familiar items that were once hers alone. Sitting at the window ledge as before, she dons a green coat – a fitting choice, since it was the color worn by the Commanders’ wives.

The action perfectly depicts the scenario and implies that every incident in the series is a reflection of June’s written account, serving as a reenactment of the heart-wrenching events she penned about her experiences, losses, and hardships.

How Her Words Compare

In the first episode of the series, June points out, “The glass might be unbreakable, but it’s not running away they fear. A handmaid wouldn’t make it far. It’s those other ways out that I’m talking about – the ones within us, found with a sharp object or a twisted cloth and a chandelier. This is a reference to the previous handmaid who ended her life using a sheet hanging from the chandelier after she took her own life.

She goes on, her voice slightly trembling yet strong. ‘I make an effort to avoid dwelling on those escapes.’ She admits it’s particularly difficult on special days, as remembering could jeopardize her situation. ‘My real name is off-limits now, and there are so many things that are forbidden now.’ In walks Serena (Yvonne Strahovski), marking the start of the ensuing narrative.

It’s apparent that the voice heard in the first episode is now June’s voice, not her voice from earlier in the series.

As I sit engrossed in the movie, I find myself repeating the dialogue, mirroring the narration, affirming that I speak these words today. I’ve managed to survive and strive on, so others may do the same. I try to avoid dwelling on those close calls, but it becomes particularly challenging on special occasions. Pondering can be detrimental, reducing my odds of success.

Looking up at the screen, June offers a mischievous grin, and with a whisper, she says, “My name is Offred.” But in this moment, she’s June, and that’s what truly matters to her. Her story needs to be told, and it will make a difference. Once upon a time, I was known as Offred. Now, I am June.

Although she faced immense physical hardship, emotional distress, and a relentless battle against Gilead, June’s writing following her escape could prove to be her most potent weapon. These words might be instrumental in rescuing her daughter from Gilead’s grasp, ultimately leading to the downfall of Gilead entirely. She was correct when she said that Gilead feared her running away; it was those unforeseen escapes that truly troubled them.

Stream The Handmaid’s Tale on Hulu.

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2025-07-06 04:32