Lucas and Style
Lucas makes a number of statements regarding the importance of using elevated style in conjunction with expressing language showing that language reflects intellect. While on a surface level, one would assume that he is merely referring to ways in which to write or speak better, but Lucas goes much further than this surface level explanation as indicated in a number of his statements.
One statement that Lucas puts firth is that there is“…no way of understanding/informing/misinforming or persuading one another…” without having a solid grasp of language. (344)
It is interesting that Lucas essentially creates an umbrella image of language as a way of covering anything and everything (positive of negative) that can be conveyed with language. To a great extent, Lucas’ broad brush portrait is completely accurate and language can convey anything provided the language is clear.
Regarding clarity there is Lucas states“…if language is muddy so is our thinking” (344) That is, it is simply not enough to make a statement. One must be understood and that means clarity. Now, most would assume this refers exclusively to external conversations it is also valid in terms of internal communication as well. That is to say, if we cannot express language clearly we can not effectively think because there will be a lack of communicative clarity within our intrapersonal communications
Of course, we can often forgive ourselves for our poor communications skills. Others, however, will be nowhere near as forgiving If out language and communications skills are lacking it will have a directly negative effect the opinions people have of us because we will come off uneducated and limited in thought and expression.
“…without a feeling for language one remains half-blind and deaf to literature.” (Lucas 344)
Quality works of literature do not write for illiterates and if the reader has a decided lack of knowledge of language than much of what is stunning about literature will be lost on the reader. If this is the case, how will the person elevate his or her literacy and critical thinking skills? The answer is the person can not if language comprehension is below average.
So, to a great extent Lucas’ statements are “dead on” in terms of their accuracy. Lucas is not putting forth theory as much he is putting forth established fact as language and style must be elevated in order to be an effective communicator. As such, his writing remains relevant today as it was when it was first written as effective communication is a timeless skill.
