Manners are of such great consequence to the novelist that any kind will do. Bad manners are better than no manners at all, and because we are losing our customary manners, we are probably overly conscious of them; this seems to be a condition that produces writers.

Summary

This quote suggests that manners, regardless of whether they are good or bad, are crucial for a novelist. The quote implies that having bad manners is still better than having no manners, as it's a sign that one is aware of social norms and values. Furthermore, as the customary manners that were once prevalent in society diminish, individuals become more conscious of this loss. This awareness of societal manners and their absence may inspire individuals to become writers, as they observe and reflect on the changes in human behavior and interactions.

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