In Haruki Murakami's "Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World," the quote suggests a deep-seated skepticism towards certain social behaviors. The speaker's disdain for a man who carries a handkerchief reflects a broader critique of superficial norms and societal expectations. It highlights how prejudices can shape our perceptions of others and influence trust.

This quote invites readers to think critically about the judgments they make based on appearances. By presenting this rule of thumb, Murakami underscores the complexity of human interactions and the ease with which we might misjudge individuals based on trivial traits.