This quote is a metaphorical commentary on societal norms and expectations, particularly those related to gender. High-heeled shoes can be seen as a symbol of the traditional roles and expectations placed upon women, such as prioritizing beauty and femininity over comfort or practicality. Rebelling against these “high-heeled shoes” represents challenging or rejecting these societal norms.
However, the second part of the quote suggests that if one chooses to rebel, it should be done in a “very smart hat.” This could mean that rebellion should not equate to abandoning all aspects of style or femininity (or any other convention), but rather redefining them in your own terms. The “smart hat” could represent individuality, intelligence, or personal style – an alternative way to meet societal expectations while still asserting one’s own identity.
Applying this idea in today’s world or personal development might involve questioning traditional norms and stereotypes that don’t serve you but doing so in a way that still respects your own values and identity. For example, if you’re a woman working in a male-dominated field, rebelling against high-heeled shoes might mean refusing to conform strictly to masculine styles of leadership; wearing your “smart hat” might mean leading with empathy and emotional intelligence instead.
In essence, Shaw encourages us not merely to reject societal expectations but also redefine them according our own values – without losing our sense of self-respect or dignity. It’s about finding balance between non-conformity for its own sake versus constructive non-conformity: reshaping standards while maintaining elements crucial for social cohesion like respect for others’ perspectives.
