Meaning: This quote by Thomas Dewar humorously captures the double standard that often exists when it comes to gambling and its impact on relationships. The statement highlights the societal expectation that a wife should not tolerate a husband who engages in gambling, unless he consistently wins. This perspective reflects a broader cultural attitude towards gambling, as well as the gender dynamics within relationships.

Gambling has long been associated with negative social and financial consequences, and historically, it has been viewed as a vice that can lead to ruin and despair. In many cultures, including the one in which Dewar lived, gambling was often seen as a frivolous and irresponsible activity that could jeopardize the stability of a family. As a result, wives were expected to disapprove of their husbands' participation in gambling, as it was considered detrimental to the well-being of the household.

However, Dewar's quote adds an intriguing twist to this conventional wisdom by suggesting that a wife might overlook her husband's gambling habits if he consistently wins. This ironic viewpoint sheds light on the arbitrary nature of societal expectations and the selective tolerance that can exist when it comes to certain behaviors. It also underscores the notion that success and wealth can often mitigate or even excuse behavior that would otherwise be deemed unacceptable.

The quote also touches upon the dynamics of power and control within relationships. Traditionally, husbands have been expected to be the providers and protectors of their families, and any behavior that jeopardizes this role, such as gambling, is typically frowned upon. Dewar's quote implies that a husband's success in gambling could potentially shift the power dynamic within the relationship, as his winnings might offset the negative consequences typically associated with gambling, thereby earning him a level of acceptance or even admiration from his wife.

Furthermore, the quote raises questions about the nature of luck and skill in gambling. While luck is often considered the primary determinant of success in gambling, the idea of being a "steady winner" implies a level of skill or strategy that goes beyond mere chance. Dewar's choice of words suggests that consistent winning in gambling is not just a matter of luck, but rather a demonstration of competence and control, qualities that are traditionally associated with responsible and respectable behavior.

In modern times, the quote can be interpreted in the context of changing attitudes towards gambling and shifting gender roles within relationships. With the increasing normalization and legalization of gambling in many societies, the stigma associated with it has somewhat diminished. Moreover, as societal expectations regarding gender roles continue to evolve, the traditional notion of the husband as the sole provider has given way to a more equitable distribution of responsibilities within relationships.

In conclusion, Thomas Dewar's quote humorously encapsulates the complex and often contradictory attitudes towards gambling, relationships, and gender dynamics. By playfully challenging the conventional wisdom surrounding gambling and its impact on marriage, the quote invites us to question societal norms and the arbitrary standards to which certain behaviors are held. Ultimately, it serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the interplay between luck, skill, relationships, and societal expectations.