Etiquette Analysis: Candles

Candles can provide such a wonderful addition to your dinner table but when is it appropriate to have candles on your table and should they be lit?

“May candles ever be lighted on a dining table in the daytime? A.V.L. Maplewood, New York No, expect late in the aldy and if the curtains are drawn. Candles placed on the table to be lighted at a later hour, as the tea or reception wears on, should have their wicks charred” - Amy Vanderbilt, 1952, pg. 67

I do agree that candles should not be lit during the daytime. However, I do think candles should not be placed on the table if they’re not lit and the concept of charred wicks feels odd. Candles, if set out, should be lit and therefore, candles should only be used in the evening.