In Margaret Atwood's "Alias Grace," the narrator reflects on societal perceptions of age and gender. The commentary highlights the disparity between how men and women are viewed in terms of aging, noting that a man can still be considered young even into his late twenties or early thirties, while a woman of the same age may already be labeled as an "old maid." This difference underscores the societal pressures placed on women regarding marriage and desirability.

The quote brings into focus the idea that men are often afforded more leeway in terms of age, with the implication that they retain their value and potential for romantic prospects longer than women. Atwood cleverly uses the character of Mary Whitney to express this notion, effectively critiquing the gender norms and expectations of the time. The juxtaposition of ages serves to emphasize the limitations women face, contrasting with the freedom men experience.