I don't have any answers as to whether the Internet is a good or a bad thing, but it's certainly an important thing for the novel because novels are so much about communication, and when communication changes, the novel has to change.

Sally Rooney’s quote reflects her ambivalence about the Internet while acknowledging its importance in shaping modern communication. She doesn't assert whether the Internet is inherently good or bad, but instead recognizes that it has become an undeniable force in how people interact. Rooney’s point is that the novel, as a form of communication and storytelling, cannot remain unchanged in the face of such a profound shift in how we connect with each other. As the ways we communicate evolve, so too must the way novels are written and understood.

Rooney emphasizes that novels are fundamentally about communication—how people convey their thoughts, emotions, and experiences to one another. As technology and communication methods have advanced, particularly with the rise of the Internet, novels must adapt to reflect this new reality. The dynamics of how people interact online, through texts, social media, or other digital platforms, are now a central part of modern life, and these changes are increasingly reflected in contemporary literature.

The quote also suggests that novels can no longer be seen in isolation from the technological and cultural contexts in which they are written and read. As society becomes more interconnected through digital platforms, the themes, structures, and narratives in novels may evolve to mirror the complexities of these new modes of communication. Whether through the inclusion of online dialogue, the exploration of virtual identities, or the shifting pace of storytelling, the influence of the Internet on literature is undeniable.

Ultimately, the origin of the quote lies in Rooney’s recognition of the evolving landscape of communication. As an author, she understands that to remain relevant and resonate with contemporary readers, the novel must engage with the changes brought about by the digital age. This reflects her awareness of the interconnectedness between technology and narrative, and how literature can continue to reflect the world’s ever-changing modes of communication.