Contents

Introduction: The Argument

Part I
Style from the Outside: Theory

Chapter I   The History of an Idea

Interlude —Quotes on Style

Chapter II   Writing, Speech, and the Middle Style

Interlude —“Looking for a Click in My Head”: Music and Style

Chapter III   A Field Guide to Styles

Interlude —Engendering Style

Chapter IV   “Style Is the Man Himself”: Style and Personality

Part II
Style from the Inside: Practice

Chapter V   Finding a Voice, Finding a Style

Interlude —Progress in Works

Chapter VI   What Writers Talk About When They Talk About Style

Interlude —Blindfold Test

Chapter VII   Consistency and Change

Chapter VIII   Style According to Form

Chapter IX   By Way of Advice


Appendix

Interviewees

Acknowledgments

Searchable Terms

About the Author

Praise

Other Books by Ben Yagoda

Copyright

About the Publisher