Meaning: The quote "Women have the feeling that since they didn't make the rules, the rules have nothing to do with them" by Diane Johnson, a novelist, encapsulates a sentiment that has been echoed by many women throughout history. It speaks to the experience of women who have felt marginalized or excluded from societal norms and regulations that were established without their input or representation. This quote touches on the broader issue of gender inequality and the ways in which women have been historically disenfranchised from positions of power and decision-making.

In the context of this quote, Diane Johnson appears to be highlighting the disconnect between women and the rules that govern society. The implication is that when women are not active participants in the creation of these rules, they may feel alienated from them or perceive them as irrelevant to their experiences. This sentiment reflects the pervasive influence of patriarchal systems that have historically shaped social, political, and economic structures.

The quote also suggests that women may feel a sense of detachment from societal rules and expectations, as these norms may not necessarily align with their own perspectives, needs, and aspirations. This can lead to a feeling of disempowerment and disillusionment, as women navigate a world that often operates under rules and standards that do not necessarily reflect or consider their lived realities.

Furthermore, the quote raises important questions about the role of women in shaping and challenging existing norms and regulations. It prompts us to consider the impact of excluding women from decision-making processes and the implications of perpetuating systems that do not fully represent or address the needs of all members of society.

From a historical perspective, women have long been denied equal participation in the formulation of laws, policies, and social structures. This exclusion has perpetuated systemic inequalities and reinforced the notion that women are not integral to the creation and implementation of societal rules. The quote by Diane Johnson sheds light on the enduring legacy of this exclusion and the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

In contemporary society, the sentiment expressed in the quote remains relevant as women continue to advocate for greater representation, inclusion, and agency in all areas of public life. The quote serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and addressing the ways in which women have been marginalized within systems of governance and decision-making.

In conclusion, Diane Johnson's quote "Women have the feeling that since they didn't make the rules, the rules have nothing to do with them" resonates with the experiences of many women who have felt marginalized within societal structures that were not designed to fully include or represent them. It underscores the need for greater gender equality and the active participation of women in shaping the rules and norms that govern our communities. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equity and the imperative of challenging and transforming systems that perpetuate inequality.