What is extraordinary about the character of Edna - and I speak as though I am completely outside this character and I am talking to you - I'm, as it were, in the wings, and she's on stage, and every now and then she says something extremely funny, and I stand there and think: 'I wish I'd thought of that.'

Barry Humphries’ quote reveals his deep admiration for the character of Edna, a persona he has created and performed for many years. He speaks of Edna in the third person, as though he is an observer, standing in the wings while the character takes center stage. This detachment suggests that Edna has developed a life of her own and, at times, surprises even Humphries with her wit and comedic timing. The line "I wish I’d thought of that" reflects his genuine appreciation for the character's humor, showcasing how Edna’s sharpness sometimes outshines even the creator’s expectations.

Humphries’s comment about being “in the wings” emphasizes his role as the creator and performer, while Edna, in contrast, is the one who commands the attention of the audience. This distinction highlights the complex relationship between the actor and the character—how an actor can become so deeply immersed in a role that the character almost feels like a separate entity. Humphries’s experience speaks to the magic of performance, where the character can occasionally take over, leading to moments of spontaneity and brilliance.

The line also reveals a certain level of humility and respect that Humphries has for his own creation. Even though he is the one portraying Edna, he still recognizes the cleverness of the character’s dialogue and humor, acknowledging that sometimes the character's wit is even beyond his own. This speaks to the depth of the character, as well as to the skill Humphries has in crafting and performing her in a way that feels authentic and ever-evolving.

The origin of this quote comes from Humphries’s long-standing career portraying Edna, where over time, the character has evolved into an iconic and multifaceted figure. His ability to see Edna as something separate from himself reflects the artistic process of creating a deeply memorable and distinctive character. The quote is a testament to the magic of live performance, where sometimes even the actor can be surprised by the brilliance of their creation.