Literary notes about Mannerism (AI summary)
The term "mannerism" has been shaped by various authors to embody a range of meanings—from an imitative or repetitive habit to a refined, even noble, stylistic choice. In some literary contexts, such as in Kant's work [1, 2], it signifies a form of imitation or derivative exposition, hinting at a tendency toward repetition that might detract from originality. Conversely, Whitman praises a particular sort of procession in behavior, deeming it "great" and "noble" [3], suggesting that when properly channeled, mannerism can be both admirable and welcome. Meanwhile, Strunk cautions that overuse of a specific device can turn a creative technique into nothing more than a predictable mannerism [4, 5]. Irving and Wilde offer further nuance—Irving dismisses any trace of foppishness or excessive embellishment [6], while Wilde links mannerism with a clique-like exclusivity and a style that might alienate broader audiences [7]. Together, these varied citations illustrate that "mannerism" can be either a tribute to refined stylistic conduct or a critique of unoriginal and overlearned habits in literature.
- Mannerism is another kind of aping, viz.
— from Kant's Critique of Judgement by Immanuel Kant - But an artistic product is said to show mannerism only when the exposition of the artist’s
— from Kant's Critique of Judgement by Immanuel Kant - His mannerism is great, but it is a noble and welcome mannerism.
— from Complete Prose Works by Walt Whitman - But this device, if too often used, would become a mannerism.
— from The Elements of Style by William Strunk - A mannerism of this kind, bad in speech, is even worse in writing.
— from The Elements of Style by William Strunk - They were dressed fashionably, but simply—with strict neatness and propriety, but without any mannerism or foppishness.
— from The Sketch-Book of Geoffrey Crayon by Washington Irving - They have become the mere mannerism of a clique, and the exaggerated realism of their method gives dull people bronchitis.
— from Intentions by Oscar Wilde
