Thanks for this style review! Writing styles interest me a lot. His style isn't for me personally because I prefer a more efficient approach. That being said, I appreciate the plain language he uses. I might be in the minority here though.
Wow this was just excellent, Oliver. Thank you for sharing it. I'm a huge fan of Paul Graham's writing - both content and style. And this was a masterclass in applying "Elements of Eloquence" directly onto his work.
"Instead, Graham writes like he speaks in the same sense that a play or film is realistic."
This is what I aim for with my writing - when someone is reading it I want it to feel like I am speaking to them. Whether it is explaining scientific content or more philosophical / personal stuff. It's difficult to achieve and undo all the formal writing style I was taught in academia, but post by post I feel like I am getting closer :)
A first-rate piece on a worthy topic. Thanks for breaking this down. I just finished Robertson Davies Fifth Business. There is much talk of "the plain style" among the characters.
Exactly how writers develop their style is an interesting topic. Some absorb it though reading. Others do carry out conceited exercises. I remember Somerset Maugham would hand-copy writing he admired.
Fantastic essay. I am enjoying your writing and looking forward to your book launch. This piece is so practical and so lyrical. I've made notes to try and apply some of these techniques to my own writing.
This is very good.
I really enjoyed this piece, thank you! Writing for a reader is so simple…and yet so difficult!
Beautiful, a writer analysed without losing the essence of his work.
As a novice writer I find this very insightful. It helps me understand things that I feel but cannot explain. Thank you!
Thanks for this style review! Writing styles interest me a lot. His style isn't for me personally because I prefer a more efficient approach. That being said, I appreciate the plain language he uses. I might be in the minority here though.
Wow this was just excellent, Oliver. Thank you for sharing it. I'm a huge fan of Paul Graham's writing - both content and style. And this was a masterclass in applying "Elements of Eloquence" directly onto his work.
A must read for all serious writers on Substack!
"Instead, Graham writes like he speaks in the same sense that a play or film is realistic."
This is what I aim for with my writing - when someone is reading it I want it to feel like I am speaking to them. Whether it is explaining scientific content or more philosophical / personal stuff. It's difficult to achieve and undo all the formal writing style I was taught in academia, but post by post I feel like I am getting closer :)
Thank you for a good read, Henry!
Kudos! Fascinating read. You do indeed write very well. Thanks for showing us style.
A first-rate piece on a worthy topic. Thanks for breaking this down. I just finished Robertson Davies Fifth Business. There is much talk of "the plain style" among the characters.
Exactly how writers develop their style is an interesting topic. Some absorb it though reading. Others do carry out conceited exercises. I remember Somerset Maugham would hand-copy writing he admired.
Excellent piece!
Fantastic essay. I am enjoying your writing and looking forward to your book launch. This piece is so practical and so lyrical. I've made notes to try and apply some of these techniques to my own writing.
Agree with Ted. Very well done. Thanks Henry.