"Very notable was his distinction between coarseness and vulgarity, coarseness, revealing something; vulgarity, concealing something"

E. M. Forster's quote is a commentary on the difference between coarseness and vulgarity. Coarseness is a quality that exposes something about a person or circumstance, while vulgarity is a quality that hides something. Forster is recommending that coarseness can be viewed as a kind of honesty, as it is not trying to hide anything. On the other hand, indecency is a kind of dishonesty, as it is trying to cover up something. This quote is a pointer that we should beware to compare coarseness and vulgarity, and to acknowledge the distinction in between sincerity and dishonesty. It is necessary to be knowledgeable about the qualities that we are displaying, and to be truthful with ourselves and others. By being honest, we can create a more open and understanding environment.