In Sinclair Lewis's "It Can't Happen Here," a character criticizes women's suffrage, arguing that women have not effectively utilized their voting rights since gaining them. This perspective reflects a belief that granting the vote to women did not lead to the expected positive changes in society. The character laments that the concerns and warnings from 1919 went unheeded, suggesting that had they been taken seriously, significant societal issues could have been avoided.
This dialogue raises questions about the impact of suffrage and the responsibilities that come with political participation. Instead of celebrating the right to vote, the character expresses disappointment, indicating a deeper skepticism about the political system and its ability to bring about meaningful reform through the engagement of various groups, including women.