J. M. Barrie's 'What Every Woman Knows' is a poignant exploration of the societal norms and expectations surrounding gender and knowledge at the turn of the 20th century. Written with Barrie's characteristic wit and sharp insight, the play focuses on the character Maggie Wylie, whose quiet intelligence and keen understanding of the world around her outstrip those of the men in her life. As a product of its time, Barrie's work engages with the prevailing literary styles and offers a subtle, yet incisive critique of the gender dynamics of his era, all while working within the framework of a romantic comedy. 'What Every Woman Knows' is not only an exemplification of Barrie's dramatic craftsmanship but also a reflective piece on the intuitive wisdom women hold and navigate within a male-dominated society.Renowned for creating the eternally youthful Peter Pan, J. M. Barrie was a Scottish novelist and playwright whose works often underscored themes of innocence, fantasy, and the complexities of adult life. 'What Every Woman Knows' was penned post-Peter Pan, at a time when Barrie had firmly established himself in the literary canon. His engagement with women's inner lives in this play is informed, perhaps, by the strong women he knew and the changing sociopolitical landscape that challenged Victorian and Edwardian ideologies.This DigiCat Publishing special edition invites readers to delve into a classic that resonates with contemporary relevance, speaking to the timeless nature of Barrie's insights. It is an essential read for those interested in early feminist literature, the history of social commentary in the arts, and the enduring charm of Barrie's prose. 'What Every Woman Knows' beckons to readers who appreciate literature that intertwines humor with earnest social critique, offering a window into the hearts and minds of women who are often unseen yet ubiquitously influential.

J.M. Barrie, born James Matthew Barrie on May 9, 1860, in Kirriemuir, Scotland, remains one of the most cherished British playwrights and novelists of the early 20th century. His body of work, imbued with a whimsicality and depth, includes the classic children's favorite 'Peter Pan' and a range of other novelistic and dramatic works, among them 'What Every Woman Knows' (1908). Barrie's upbringing in the small weaving town, coupled with the loss of his older brother and the psychological impact it had on his family, notably his mother, shaped his literary sensibilities. His keen observation of the nuances of human behavior and relationships is evident in 'What Every Woman Knows,' where he explores the dynamics of marriage and the intelligence and wit of women in a society that often overlooked their contributions. Barrie's distinctive literary style often weaved together elements of fantasy and social commentary, crafting narratives that were both enchanting and piercing in their insights into human nature. His remarkable ability to sketch characters who resonated with audiences of all ages contributed to his fame. Barrie was bestowed with a baronetcy in 1913 and later became Rector of the University of St Andrews. He continued to write until his death on June 19, 1937, leaving a legacy that has influenced generations of writers and dreamers alike.