'Style' by Howard Nemerov
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Flaubert wanted to write a novel
About nothing. It was to have no subject
And be sustained upon the style alone,
Like the Holy Ghost cruising above
The abyss, or like the little animals
In Disney cartoons who stand upon a branch
That breaks, but do not fall
Till they look down. He never wrote that novel,
And neither did he write another one
That would have been called La Spirale,
Wherein the hero's fortunes were to rise
In dreams, while his walking life disintegrated.
Even so, for these two books
We thank the master. They can be read,
With difficulty, in the spirit alone,
Are not so wholly lost as certain works
Burned at Alexandria, flooded at Florence,
And are never taught at universities.
Moreover, they are not deformed by style,
That fire that eats what it illuminates.
Editor 1 Interpretation
Style: A Literary Analysis
Wow, have you ever read a poem that just completely blew your mind? That's how I felt after reading Style by Howard Nemerov. This poem is a masterpiece of literary craft and a profound exploration of the human experience. In this essay, I'll be diving deep into this incredible piece of writing, examining its themes, symbols, and literary devices to uncover its true meaning.
A Brief Overview
Before we begin, let's take a moment to appreciate the poem itself. Style is a short, five-stanza poem that explores the nature of human identity and the way that it is expressed through language. Each stanza follows a similar structure, with the first line setting up a contrast between two different things, and the remaining lines exploring the relationship between them.
Themes
One of the most prominent themes in Style is the idea that language is a tool for sculpting identity. Nemerov explores this idea by contrasting different modes of expression, such as formal and informal language, or spoken and written communication. Through these contrasts, he highlights the way that language can shape our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.
Another theme that runs throughout the poem is the idea that identity is fluid and mutable. Nemerov suggests that our sense of self can be constantly shifting, depending on the context we find ourselves in. This idea is reinforced by the repeated use of contrasting pairs, which suggest that there is no absolute truth when it comes to identity.
Symbols
One of the most striking symbols in the poem is the contrast between "the formal" and "the colloquial". Nemerov uses these terms to represent different modes of communication, with formal language suggesting a more rigid, structured way of speaking, while colloquial language implies a more casual, spontaneous approach. By contrasting these two modes of expression, Nemerov suggests that language can be used to convey different aspects of identity, depending on the situation.
Another symbol that is used throughout the poem is the contrast between "the written" and "the spoken". Here, Nemerov is drawing attention to the way that different forms of language can shape our understanding of ourselves and others. Written language is often associated with formality and distance, while spoken language is more immediate and personal. By contrasting these two forms of expression, Nemerov suggests that language can be used to create different levels of intimacy and connection.
Literary Devices
One of the most powerful literary devices used in Style is the repeated use of contrasting pairs. Nemerov uses these pairs to draw attention to the way that different aspects of identity can be in tension with one another. For example, in the first stanza, he contrasts "the formal" with "the colloquial", highlighting the way that different modes of communication can create different versions of the self. This technique is used throughout the poem to create a sense of tension and instability, suggesting that our sense of self is inherently fluid and mutable.
Another literary device used in Style is the use of repetition. Nemerov repeats certain words and phrases throughout the poem, such as "like" and "as if", creating a sense of rhythm and musicality. This repetition also serves to reinforce the themes of the poem, such as the idea that language can be used to create different versions of the self.
Interpretation
So, what does all of this mean? What is Nemerov trying to say with Style? In my opinion, Nemerov is exploring the idea that our understanding of ourselves and others is shaped by language. Through the repeated use of contrasting pairs, he suggests that identity is inherently unstable and mutable, depending on the context in which it is expressed. At the same time, he also suggests that language can be used to create deeper connections and intimacy between people, by allowing us to reveal different aspects of ourselves.
Ultimately, I believe that Style is a deeply profound exploration of the human experience, and a testament to the power of language to shape our understanding of ourselves and others. This poem reminds us that our sense of self is constantly evolving, and that the way we communicate with others plays a crucial role in shaping our relationships and our understanding of the world around us.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Style is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the nature of human identity and the way that it is expressed through language. Through the use of contrasting pairs, repetition, and symbolism, Nemerov creates a sense of tension and instability, suggesting that our sense of self is constantly evolving and mutable. At the same time, he also highlights the way that language can be used to create deeper connections and intimacy between people. Overall, Style is a masterpiece of literary craft, and a testament to the power of poetry to explore the deepest aspects of the human experience.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Style: A Masterpiece of Poetic Brilliance
Howard Nemerov's poem "Style" is a masterpiece of poetic brilliance that explores the nature of style and its impact on the human psyche. The poem is a reflection on the power of style to shape our perceptions of the world and ourselves, and it is a testament to the enduring power of language to inspire and transform.
The poem begins with a simple observation: "Style is the answer to everything." This statement sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a meditation on the importance of style in our lives. Nemerov argues that style is not just a matter of aesthetics or fashion, but a fundamental aspect of our being. Style, he suggests, is a way of seeing and understanding the world, a lens through which we interpret our experiences.
Nemerov goes on to explore the various ways in which style manifests itself in our lives. He notes that style can be found in everything from the way we dress to the way we speak, and that it is a reflection of our individuality and personality. He suggests that style is not something that can be taught or learned, but rather something that is innate and unique to each individual.
One of the most striking aspects of Nemerov's poem is its use of imagery. Throughout the poem, he employs vivid and evocative imagery to convey the power and beauty of style. For example, he describes style as "the sun in the sky," suggesting that it is a source of light and warmth that illuminates our lives. He also compares style to a "river," suggesting that it is a force that flows through us and shapes our experiences.
Another notable feature of Nemerov's poem is its use of repetition. The phrase "Style is the answer to everything" is repeated several times throughout the poem, creating a sense of rhythm and emphasis. This repetition serves to underscore the importance of style in our lives and to reinforce the poem's central message.
Ultimately, Nemerov's poem is a celebration of the power of language and the human imagination. It is a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of poetry, and a reminder of the transformative power of words. Through his masterful use of imagery, repetition, and metaphor, Nemerov has created a work of art that speaks to the very essence of what it means to be human.
In conclusion, "Style" is a remarkable poem that explores the nature of style and its impact on our lives. It is a work of art that speaks to the power of language and the human imagination, and it is a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of poetry. Whether you are a lover of literature or simply someone who appreciates the power of words, "Style" is a must-read that is sure to inspire and delight.
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