In this society, the behavior that men were expected to demand was extremely restrictive. For example, when Newland wishes he could vacation with May and her family, he states that he can't, because. This meant he couldn't leave his job for something as leisurely as vacation. In fact, when he decides to break convention and go visit May anyway, he takes credit for being sick for this one reason that could justify such an action. The expectations are deeply oppressive as they dictate every aspect of Newland's life, including the career he must pursue. Newland is unhappy with his choice to become a lawyer. Oppressed as he is, Newland will never be able to be part of this society and at the same time choose a path different from the one prescribed for him. This oppression is so intensely ingrained in him that he has been trained to be that man his society wants, whether he accepts that title or not. This quote is from the end of the novel where Wharton made it clear that he would never be able to free himself from the oppressive grips of society. Ultimately, Newland reflects on a life in which he accomplishes exactly what society deems right, but he also reflects on the fact that his life is one where he has never really done what he wants, but rather simply live as it is confined.