Meaning: The quote "Long before history began we men have got together apart from the women and done things. We had time." is attributed to C.S. Lewis, the renowned author of "The Chronicles of Narnia" series and numerous works on Christian apologetics and literature. This quote reflects a perspective on the activities of men in the distant past, suggesting that they have engaged in collective endeavors separate from women and had the luxury of time for such pursuits.

C.S. Lewis was a prominent intellectual figure of the 20th century, known for his insightful commentary on various aspects of human experience, including gender dynamics, spirituality, and the nature of time. Born in 1898, Lewis lived through a period of profound social and cultural change, and his writings often reflect his observations and contemplations on the complexities of human existence.

In the quoted passage, Lewis seems to be highlighting a historical pattern of male-centric activities that predate recorded history. This notion may be influenced by his scholarly interests in ancient civilizations and mythologies, as well as his engagement with literary and religious traditions. It is important to note that the quote reflects a specific historical and cultural context and should be interpreted with sensitivity to the evolving understanding of gender roles and societal dynamics.

The phrase "Long before history began" implies a time so distant that it predates the written record of human events. This temporal perspective invites contemplation of the primal origins of human behavior and social structures. Lewis suggests that even in these early times, men had a tendency to form groups and engage in collective endeavors separate from women. This observation may be informed by anthropological and historical studies of early human societies, which have identified gender-specific roles and activities within different cultures.

The statement "We had time" carries multiple layers of meaning. On one level, it speaks to the availability of leisure and freedom from immediate survival pressures. This temporal abundance could have allowed men to come together for communal activities, such as hunting, ritualistic gatherings, or the development of early technologies. Lewis may be hinting at the luxury of time for exploration, creativity, and social bonding that early human communities may have experienced.

From a literary and philosophical perspective, the phrase "We had time" can also evoke existential and metaphysical considerations. Time, as a concept, has been a subject of deep contemplation in philosophical discourse, and various interpretations of its nature and significance abound. In this context, Lewis may be alluding to the profound implications of temporal existence and the ways in which the passage of time shapes human actions and relationships.

It's important to approach this quote with a critical lens, considering the historical context in which it was written and the evolving discourses on gender and societal structures. While the quote reflects a particular observation about male activities in ancient times, it should not be taken as a prescriptive or normative statement about gender roles. Rather, it provides a glimpse into the thought-provoking reflections of a prominent author and thinker on the timeless aspects of human experience.