"I waited and worked, and watched the inferior exalted for nearly thirty years; and when recognition came at last, it was too late to alter events, or to make a difference in living"

This quote by Ellen Glasgow speaks with the idea of the futility of waiting on acknowledgment. It recommends that even if recognition is ultimately given, it may be too late to make a difference in one's life. This might be analyzed as a warning to not wait too wish for acknowledgment, as it may not can be found in time to make a distinction. It could also be analyzed as a commentary on the unfairness of life, as Glasgow suggests that she enjoyed inferior people be honored while she awaited recognition. This could be seen as a criticism of the method society values particular people over others, and how this can cause unjust outcomes. Eventually, this quote talks to the idea that acknowledgment must not be considered approved, which it needs to be sought out in a timely manner.