Meaning: The quote you provided is from John Crowe Ransom, an American poet, essayist, and professor. The quote is from his essay "Criticism, Inc." in which he discusses the nature of literary criticism and the role of the critic.

In this particular quote, Ransom is discussing the development of sense and style in writing and its relationship to objective form. Let's break down the quote to understand its meaning more clearly.

Ransom begins by asserting that an individual has the capacity to develop "sense and style" in their writing. "Sense" refers to the meaningful content, ideas, and coherence in the writing, while "style" pertains to the unique and distinctive manner in which the writing is expressed. Ransom suggests that developing these qualities in writing is akin to the distinguished modern prose, indicating a high standard of literary achievement.

The phrase "in the manner of distinguished modern prose" implies that the writer is capable of reaching a level of sophistication and refinement in their writing that aligns with the standards set by esteemed contemporary prose writers. This suggests an appreciation for the artistry and skill involved in crafting prose that is both modern and distinguished.

Ransom then introduces the concept of "objective form." This term refers to the structure and presentation of the writing that is not influenced by personal feelings or interpretations. Ransom seems to suggest that if the writer successfully develops sense and style, the result will not conform to any predetermined or preconceived objective form.

This assertion can be interpreted in a few ways. On one hand, Ransom may be suggesting that achieving a high level of sense and style in writing allows the work to transcend conventional or rigid forms, embracing a more fluid and individualistic expression. On the other hand, Ransom might be cautioning against the imposition of standardized or dogmatic forms on writing that has achieved a high level of sense and style.

Ransom's statement can also be seen as a commentary on the dynamic relationship between creative expression and established literary norms. He seems to be suggesting that when a writer achieves a certain level of mastery in their craft, their work will naturally resist being confined to a specific objective form. This reflects the idea that great writing has the power to transcend boundaries and defy categorization.

Overall, Ransom's quote encapsulates the idea that the development of sense and style in writing can elevate it to a level that defies easy classification or containment within objective forms. It speaks to the creative potential of writers to produce work that is both sophisticated and resistant to standardization. This quote is a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of literary expression and the ways in which writers can strive for excellence while resisting constraints.