Reading the nurse's name tag, Mr. Bennet replied with fake enthusiasm, "Bernard! We're mourning the death of manners and the rise of overly familiar discourse. How are you?"
In the novel "Eligible" by Curtis Sittenfeld, a character named Mr. Bennet encounters a nurse named Bernard. Bennet responds to the nurse's introduction with insincere enthusiasm, showcasing a tongue-in-cheek commentary on contemporary social interactions. His sarcastic remark highlights a perceived decline in proper etiquette and the increasing prevalence of casual communication.
This exchange reflects a broader theme in the book, where characters navigate modern relationships and societal expectations. It underscores the...