In Margaret Atwood's collection "Stone Mattress: Nine Tales," a character named Tobias explores societal perceptions of aging, particularly regarding women. He suggests that women endure the indignities of old age more gracefully than men, as they are less likely to react with indignation. This endurance is portrayed as a unique characteristic, reflecting how women often handle life's challenges with resilience.

Tobias's assertion implies that the experience of aging is filled with humiliations, which he associates more with women due to their emotional fortitude. He questions the integrity of those who would not tolerate such indignities, highlighting a poignant view on the complexities of aging and the different ways genders experience this inevitable phase of life.