Here was grouped a chaotic assemblage of articles—mainly old framed prints and paintings—leaning edgewise against the wall, like roofing slates in a builder's yard.
" To get a word in edgewise" would mean to give your opinion, or simply to say something, to someone who is talking so much, it's very difficult to get a chance to talk.
“To get a word in edgewise”意思是对一个话太多人发表你意见,或者只是说点什么,很难有机会说话。