Certain Style, A : Book Review

"Certain Style: The Life of Stylized Writing" by Robert Gottlieb is a captivating exploration of the world of writing and literary style. Gottlieb, a renowned editor, takes readers on a journey through the works of iconic writers like Dorothy Parker, A. A. Milne, and John O'Hara, showcasing their distinct and captivating writing styles. Through his insightful analysis and storytelling, Gottlieb provides readers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art of writing.

One of the book's greatest strengths is Gottlieb's ability to transport readers into the literary world of each author. He skillfully captures the essence of their writing styles, enabling readers to truly grasp the nuances and uniqueness of their works. The book is filled with ample examples and excerpts, making it easy for readers to connect with and visualize the different writing styles being discussed.

Additionally, Gottlieb delves into the personal lives of these authors, offering valuable context and insight into the origins of their writing styles. He explores how their life experiences and personalities influenced their distinctive approaches to writing. This adds a depth to the book that allows readers to understand and connect with the authors on a more personal level.

Gottlieb's writing style is engaging and informative, making "Certain Style" an enjoyable read. He effortlessly weaves together anecdotes, literary analysis, and historical context, creating a well-rounded narrative that keeps readers captivated throughout. Whether you are a writer, an avid reader, or simply interested in the craft of writing, this book offers valuable insights and inspiration.

In conclusion, Robert Gottlieb's "Certain Style: The Life of Stylized Writing" is an intriguing and illuminating exploration of the world of writing. Through his analysis of well-known authors and their distinctive styles, Gottlieb offers readers a deeper appreciation for the art of writing. With its engaging writing and valuable insights, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intricacies of literary style.

What are readers saying?

The book "A Certain Style" by Robert Gottlieb has evoked a range of responses from readers, with some praising its informative and engaging nature, while others have criticized its lack of depth and excessive focus on the author's personal opinions.

Many readers appreciated Gottlieb's insights into the world of book publishing and enjoyed the behind-the-scenes anecdotes about working with renowned authors. These stories provided a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the publishing industry, making the book informative and enjoyable for some.

However, not all readers were satisfied with the book's content. Some felt that it lacked scholarly analysis and critical examination of the authors and books discussed. They had been hoping for more in-depth discussions about literary styles and techniques, rather than personal opinions and anecdotes.

The writing style of the book also divided readers. Some found Gottlieb's writing to be engaging and witty, which contributed to an enjoyable reading experience. On the other hand, some readers found the writing to be overly self-indulgent and meandering, making it difficult to stay engaged with the content.

Another point of criticism was the book's narrow focus on specific literary figures and styles. Some readers felt that it lacked diversity in its discussions and would have benefited from exploring a wider range of authors and writing styles.

CertainStyleA BookRecommendation MustRead