"I am said to be difficult of acquaintance, unwilling to meet any one half way, and showing a social manner which is easy, not diffident, but formal and unresponsive, tending constantly to hold people off"

Albert J. Nock's quote provides a nuanced self-characterization that exposes insights into his character and social attitude. He explains himself as "challenging of associate", recommending that he is not someone whom others quickly or quickly get to know. This suggests a certain reserve or selective nature in how he picks to engage with others, focusing on depth and meaningful connections over superficial interactions.

Nock further elaborates on his social hesitation by stating that he is "reluctant to meet anyone halfway". This exposes a sense of steadfastness in his principles or individual boundaries, indicating that he might resist conforming to social expectations merely for the sake of making connections. Such an attitude could suggest an individual who values credibility and integrity over mere social benefit or acceptance.

His referral to showing a social way that is "easy, not diffident, however official and unresponsive" paints a photo of someone who is not shy or insecure ("not diffident"), yet keeps a particular etiquette and range ("formal and unresponsive"). This juxtaposition of being at ease yet reserved can be analyzed as an intentional choice to maintain control over his social interactions. It indicates a preference for keeping social exchanges on a surface area level unless deeper engagement is called for.

The concluding phrase, "tending continuously to hold individuals off", highlights his secured technique. It recommends a protective system, possibly driven by previous experiences or a desire to keep his inner world's sanctity. By purposefully holding people at arm's length, Nock might be working out caution, preserving his energy and focus for relationships and pursuits that really align with his core worths.

In essence, Nock's quote shows a complex personality that stabilizes the ease of social engagement with intentional borders. It speaks with an ingrained uniqueness and authenticity, where interactions are thoroughly curated to reflect personal values instead of social pressures.