Meaning: The quote "I am, out of the ladies' company, like a fish out of the water" is a statement made by Thomas Shadwell, a prominent English playwright and poet of the late 17th century. Shadwell was known for his satirical and comedic works, and this particular quote reflects a sense of discomfort or unease when not in the presence of women.

In context, this quote may be interpreted as a humorous and self-deprecating remark, suggesting that the speaker feels out of place or awkward when not surrounded by women. It conveys a sense of reliance on female company for comfort or social ease, while also employing the familiar metaphor of a fish out of water to emphasize the feeling of being out of one's element.

Thomas Shadwell's works often depicted the social and political issues of his time, and his use of humor and satire allowed him to critique societal norms and behaviors. In this quote, Shadwell may be commenting on the social dynamics and expectations of his era, highlighting the importance of women's company and the discomfort experienced when separated from it.

The metaphor of a fish out of water is a common literary device used to convey a sense of alienation or discomfort. It evokes the image of a fish struggling to survive outside of its natural habitat, emphasizing the feeling of being out of place or disconnected. In the context of this quote, the comparison suggests that the speaker feels similarly ill at ease when not in the company of women, perhaps due to a reliance on their presence for social interaction or emotional support.

The quote can also be interpreted in a broader sense, reflecting the universal human experience of feeling out of place or uncomfortable in certain social settings. It speaks to the idea that individuals may have particular environments or company in which they feel most at ease and that being removed from these settings can create a sense of disconnection or unease.

In the context of Shadwell's larger body of work, this quote may also be seen as a reflection of the gender dynamics and social expectations of the time. Women's company was often considered essential for social interaction and refinement, and men were expected to be at ease and charming in the presence of ladies. Shadwell's use of humor and self-deprecation in this quote may serve as a commentary on these social conventions, highlighting the pressure on men to be adept in female company and the discomfort experienced when they are not.

Overall, Thomas Shadwell's quote "I am, out of the ladies' company, like a fish out of the water" offers a humorous and insightful commentary on social dynamics, gender expectations, and the universal human experience of feeling out of place. Through the use of metaphor and wit, Shadwell captures a sense of discomfort and reliance on female company while also providing a window into the social norms and expectations of his time.