The quote humorously reflects on the odd and whimsical names of places in a certain area, specifically the Piddle Valley. The author points out that while fictional narratives can stretch credibility, it would be quite a task to create a romantic story set in locations with such unusual names as Farleigh Piddle, Middle Piddle, Nether Piddle, and Piddle Dummer.
This observation suggests that while quirky names can add charm and character to a setting, they can also challenge the believability of a narrative, especially in the genre of romantic fiction. The juxtaposition of these names with the expectations of romance creates an amusing tension, emphasizing the importance of relatable and credible environments in storytelling.