This quote by P. G. Wodehouse humorously captures the subtle hierarchy and challenges within the literary world. The idea that authors aspire first to see their letters printed in newspapers suggests a yearning for immediate recognition and public engagement, perhaps because letters to the editor are often seen as a quick and direct way to influence public opinion and gain some notoriety. However, when an aspiring writer cannot achieve this, they 'drop down a rung' and resort to writing novels, implying that novel writing is a secondary or less prestigious endeavor. This perspective playfully criticizes the publishing culture and perhaps the perceived value society places on different literary forms.

It’s an interesting commentary on how various forms of writing are valued and the struggles authors face in finding their place. Letters published in a newspaper may seem more ephemeral but are tied closely to public discourse and immediate impact, whereas novels are typically more elaborate and potentially enduring but may require more time and effort to produce. Wodehouse’s quote also subtly implies that writing novels might be seen as a fallback career plan for those unable to thrive in more immediate or impactful literary arenas.

Moreover, this observation touches on the competitive nature of literary success, where authors are constantly measuring their accomplishments and recognition against others, perhaps feeling like some platforms hold more prestige than others. Ultimately, the quote is a witty reminder of the diverse paths in writing and the subjective perception of what constitutes literary success or failure. It invites reflection on what motivates writers and how society appreciates their craft in varied forms.