Surely, then, mere style, or language, never was, as it…
““Surely, then, mere style, or language, never was, as it never could, naturally, it never could, possibly be praised, by well-informed readers; by them, the poet's manner of expressing his ideas is admired, only as the vigorous, and splendid nature of those ideas give it a dignity, and lustre. A style deserves no commendation which is not impregnated with the spirit of genius; if it is not actuated, and burnished with that spirit, it must always be feeble, and lifeless, like its weak, and presumptuous authour. Infinitely various are the powers, and display of the human mind: sometimes a nervous, nay, a great writer, in his ardent intellectual progress, will be negligent of the style, or manner in which he expresses his thoughts; but still, aided by that ardour, even his negligent strokes will hit you; even in his roughness you will feel an interest. This is another proof, if another proof was wanting, that it is thought which gives a commanding character, and authority to style; and that style will attract, and fix, and gratify our attention; even when it is thrown out by a careless vigour.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Style without substance lacks lasting merit; true value lies in ideas, not mere form.
In simple terms: Substance gives style dignity.
Key Takeaway
Focus on deep ideas.
Themes
literature
style
substance
creativity
critique
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
Books:1
Human mind:1
Nature:0
Poetry:1
Style-substance:1
Writing:1
Style Manner:1
Poet Manner:1
Mere Style:0
Negligent Style:0
Ideas Admired:1
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- literary critique
- academic study
Key Concepts
aesthetics
philosophy
writing theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideas do you value most?
- How can style enhance, not replace, substance?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on style can distract from meaning.