Only great minds can afford a simple style

Only great minds can afford a simple style

The quote "Only great minds can afford a simple style" is often attributed to the French writer Stendhal, whose real name was Marie-Henri Beyle. Stendhal was known for his innovative and influential writing style, which was characterized by its simplicity and clarity. He believed that true genius lay in the ability to convey complex ideas in a straightforward and accessible manner.

Stendhal's own writing exemplified this philosophy. His most famous works, including "The Red and the Black" and "The Charterhouse of Parma," are renowned for their elegant prose and incisive observations on human nature. Stendhal eschewed the ornate and flowery language that was popular in his time, opting instead for a more direct and unadorned style. This simplicity allowed his ideas to shine through and resonate with readers on a deeper level.