This is another thing which I really like investigating in…
“This is another thing which I really like investigating in my novels: what is it that makes an intimate society, that makes a society in which moral concern for others will be possible? Part of that I think are manners and ritual. We tried to get rid of manners, we tried to abolish manners in the '60s. Manners were very, very old-fashioned and un-cool. And of course we didn't realise that manners are the building blocks of proper moral relationships between people.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Manners and rituals form the foundation of moral societies.
In simple terms: Politeness builds moral bonds.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate respectful habits to strengthen community ethics.
Themes
morality
manners
rituals
society
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
novel
philosophical
When to use this quote
- daily interactions
- community building
- education
Key Concepts
social cohesion
cultural norms
Questions to Reflect On
- What rituals foster empathy?
- Can manners evolve without losing moral value?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on form can become superficial.