Stendhal: 'It is the nobility of their style which will make our writers of 1840 unreadable forty years from now.'

It is the nobility of their style which will make our writers of 1840 unreadable forty years from now.

Summary: The quote by Stendhal, "It is the nobility of their style which will make our writers of 1840 unreadable forty years from now," suggests that the writers of his time were more focused on the grandeur and elegance of their literary style rather than the substance of their work. This quote holds significance as it raises the question of whether style or substance is more crucial in writing. However, delving deeper into this topic, we can explore an unexpected philosophical concept that adds intrigue to the discussion.Introduction of Philosophical Concept: In examining Stendhal's quote, we can delve into the fascinating realm of existentialism. In existentialism, the emphasis is placed on individual freedom and finding meaning in one's existence. Applying this concept to the world of literature, we can explore the idea that the true value of a piece of writing lies not in its adherence to grandiose style, but rather in the ability to evoke an existential experience within the reader.Stendhal's quote highlights the pitfalls of prioritizing style over substance. By focusing solely on creating a noble and impressive literary style, writers of 1840 ultimately sacrificed the longevity and relevance of their work. While elegant language and eloquent phrasing may initially captivate readers, the lack of substance can undermine a piece of literature's significance over time.In contrast, existential literature aims to explore the human condition, focusing on questions of existence, purpose, and individuality. Philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus believed that literature should be a vehicle for readers to confront their own existence and make meaning within an inherently absurd world. As such, the writings that endure are those that provoke introspection and resonate with readers on a deeper, existential level.It is within this context that Stendhal's quote can be critically assessed. While the writers of 1840 may have produced works that were aesthetically pleasing and admired in their time, their lack of substance rendered them ultimately forgotten. The true measure of a writer's ability lies not in their ability to create a noble style, but in their capacity to offer readers a profound existential experience.When we consider existential literature, timeless works such as Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment" and Franz Kafka's "The Trial" come to mind. These works not only possess a compelling style but also delve into the depths of the human psyche, grappling with notions of guilt, alienation, and the search for meaning. The existential themes explored in these novels have allowed them to transcend time and remain relevant even decades after their initial publication.The allure of nobility in style is not to be dismissed entirely, as it can enhance the reading experience and captivate our imagination. However, Stendhal's quote serves as a cautionary reminder that substance and meaning should never be sacrificed for the sake of style alone. Writing that stands the test of time intertwines both noble style and existential substance, engaging readers on a profound level and offering them a chance to reassess their own existence.In conclusion, Stendhal's quote provides valuable insight into the pitfalls of prioritizing style over substance in writing. By introducing the concept of existential literature, we have illuminated the distinction between superficial elegance and profound significance in writing. As readers and aspiring writers, we should strive to create works that possess both a noble style and existential substance, ensuring that our words resonate with future generations and leave a lasting impact.