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I submit that style, too, is an answer to a common want…

“I submit that style, too, is an answer to a common want; but not so much to formulated problems as to felt difficulties of an emotional kind. . . . Style is fundamentally a pose, a stance, at times a self delusion, by which the people of any period meet the particular dilemmas of their day.” quote by Jacques Barzun
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““I submit that style, too, is an answer to a common want; but not so much to formulated problems as to felt difficulties of an emotional kind. . . . Style is fundamentally a pose, a stance, at times a self delusion, by which the people of any period meet the particular dilemmas of their day.””

Jacques Barzun

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Style is a response to emotional needs, often a self‑presentation that helps people confront contemporary dilemmas.

In simple terms: Style reflects emotional needs and self‑presentation.

Key Takeaway

Recognize style’s emotional roots.

Themes

literature psychology culture

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

critical observational

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • marketing
  • personal branding
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

self‑presentation emotional coping historical context

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your personal style address emotional challenges?
  • When does style become self‑delusion?
A Different Perspective

Style can mask underlying issues rather than solve them.

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