Manners are love in a cool climate

Manners are love in a cool climate

Quentin Crisp, the iconic English writer, actor, and raconteur, was known for his sharp wit, flamboyant style, and unapologetic embrace of his own individuality. He was a true original, unafraid to challenge societal norms and expectations, particularly when it came to matters of personal expression and identity. Despite his often controversial and provocative persona, Crisp was also a firm believer in the importance of manners and etiquette.

One of Crisp's most famous quotes is "Manners are love in a cool climate." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates his belief that good manners are not just about following a set of rules or conventions, but are a reflection of one's inner values and respect for others. In a world that can often feel cold and indifferent, Crisp saw manners as a way to bring warmth and humanity to our interactions with one another.

For Crisp, manners were not just about saying please and thank you, or knowing which fork to use at a formal dinner. They were a way of showing kindness, consideration, and empathy towards others. In his view, good manners were a form of love – a way of expressing care and respect for the people around us, even in the face of adversity or indifference.

Crisp's own life was a testament to the power of manners as a form of love. Despite facing discrimination and prejudice for his flamboyant appearance and openly gay identity, he never lost his sense of grace and dignity. He was always impeccably polite and courteous, even in the face of ignorance or hostility. In doing so, he showed that manners are not just a superficial facade, but a genuine expression of one's character and values.