Have you ever read something and thought, wow, that's written so beautifully? Or heard a song playing and been awed at the melody? Recently I experienced a few examples where I was drawn to something, then realised what I loved was the style but not the content.
I read a particular book and the author strung sentences together in a way which left me awestruck. Words seemed to leap off the page with a life of their own, tickling my imagination. I could picture the scene vividly. As I read further, I realised I was reading a story about murder and warfare and subterfuge. The content was terrible, yet the style mesmerising. Or I heard a song playing and was awed by the voice and the tune, yet on listening closer, realised that the words sung were of lustful passion, something that clashed with my values. The style was wonderful, but the message less so.
The reverse is true. Perhaps I ignore something I shouldn't, because of the way it is presented; the style? Do you do this sometimes too? Be aware of times when you may judge on first impression, not allowing time for depth to become apparent. Both style and content are necessary, but if one may be lacking, try to ensure it is style. Style may be rectified by changing the presentation, but if the message is faulty it cannot easily be transformed, though may be covered over.
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