What would you like to read?Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...
Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...
What would you like to read?Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...
Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...Search books, authors, genres, shelves, users...
1885
Robert Louis Stevenson
1885
A collection of essays written in the late 19th century. This work explores various facets of the writing process and the nature of literature, emphasizing the significance of style, the moral responsibilities of authors, and personal reflections on influential works. Each essay examines different elements that contribute to effective writing, with Stevenson drawing from his own experiences and the broader context of literary tradition. The opening portion of the text begins with Stevenson's deliberation on the technical elements of literary style. He suggests that exploring the mechanics of art can sometimes spoil its magic, yet he endeavours to dissect the craft of writing systematically. He underscores the importance of word choice and the structure of sentences, likening literature to an architectural endeavor where the writer must create with fixed linguistic blocks. Furthermore, Stevenson shares his perspective on the dual nature of art as both representative and autonomous, emphasising that true literary elegance involves a thoughtful blend of rhythm, style, and substantive meaning. This initial exploration showcases Stevenson's authority on the subject while inviting readers into a thoughtful examination of the art of writing.
