Back home in Arbroath, they had thought that she was just a girl–she had heard one of her male relatives say just that–and that somebody who was just a girl had nothing really important to say about anything.
In the story "Espresso Tales" by Alexander McCall Smith, the protagonist faces gender-based stereotypes in her hometown of Arbroath. She overhears a male relative dismissing her as "just a girl," suggesting that her opinions and ideas lack significance. This reflects a larger societal perspective that undermines the value of women's voices.
The quote highlights the challenges women encounter regarding recognition and authority, particularly in environments that prioritize traditional views of gender roles. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and valuing the contributions of all individuals, regardless of gender, to foster a more inclusive conversation.
