Meaning: This quote by James Barrie, the famous playwright and author best known for creating Peter Pan, touches on the dynamic between men and women in a traditional, patriarchal society. The quote reflects the societal norms and expectations of the time when it was written, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century.

The first part of the quote, "Every man who is high up likes to think that he has done it all himself," speaks to the tendency of successful men to attribute their achievements solely to their own efforts. This attitude can be attributed to the values of individualism and self-reliance that have long been celebrated in many cultures. In a society that often emphasizes personal success and ambition, it is not uncommon for individuals, particularly men in positions of power or influence, to take full credit for their accomplishments.

The second part of the quote, "and the wife smiles and lets it go at that," sheds light on the role of women in this dynamic. It suggests that the wife, presumably the supportive partner of the successful man, is expected to quietly accept his self-attribution of success without challenging it. This reflects the traditional gender roles and power dynamics prevalent in many societies at the time the quote was written. Women were often expected to play a subordinate and supportive role to their husbands, and their own achievements or contributions were frequently overlooked or dismissed.

The quote captures the complex interplay of gender, power, and societal expectations. It highlights the disparity in the recognition of individual agency and the unequal distribution of acknowledgment and credit based on gender. The husband's assertion of self-made success is contrasted with the passive acceptance of the wife, emphasizing the unequal power dynamics between men and women in a traditional marital relationship.

It's important to note that while the quote reflects historical gender dynamics, it also serves as a commentary on the broader societal structures and power imbalances. The "high up" individuals mentioned in the quote could also be interpreted as those in positions of authority and influence in various spheres of life, not just within the context of marriage. The quote can be seen as a critique of the broader societal tendency to overlook and undervalue the contributions of women and other marginalized groups.

In contemporary times, the quote continues to hold relevance as discussions around gender equality, representation, and recognition of diverse voices remain prominent. The quote serves as a reminder of the historical and ongoing struggle for equal recognition and acknowledgment of contributions regardless of gender, and the need to challenge traditional power dynamics and gender roles.

In conclusion, James Barrie's quote encapsulates the nuanced dynamics of gender, power, and societal expectations prevalent in traditional patriarchal societies. It highlights the unequal distribution of recognition and credit based on gender and serves as a poignant commentary on the historical and ongoing struggle for gender equality and recognition of diverse voices. The quote's enduring relevance underscores the importance of continued efforts to challenge traditional power dynamics and promote equal recognition and acknowledgment for all individuals, irrespective of gender.