Poetry:
* Elegiac Tone: Arnold's poetry is often marked by a melancholic, reflective, and elegiac tone. He explores themes of loss, disillusionment, and the complexities of modern life with a sense of yearning for a lost past.
* Formal Structure: Arnold adhered to traditional poetic forms like sonnets, blank verse, and heroic couplets. He valued form and structure, using them to achieve a sense of control and order amidst the chaos of modern life.
* Simple Language: While employing formal structures, Arnold's language is generally simple and direct. He avoids excessive ornamentation and focuses on clear expression of ideas and emotions.
* Classical Influences: Arnold was deeply influenced by classical literature and culture, and his poetry often reflects a yearning for the ideals of ancient Greece and Rome.
* Social Commentary: Many of Arnold's poems address social issues, such as class divisions, industrialization, and the decline of traditional values. He aimed to use poetry as a tool to engage with and critique the realities of his time.
Literary Criticism:
* Analytical and Philosophical: Arnold's literary criticism was known for its analytical approach and philosophical depth. He aimed to understand the underlying principles and values that shaped literature.
* Emphasis on Culture: Arnold saw literature as an integral part of a nation's culture, and he believed that it had a crucial role to play in shaping moral and social values.
* Advocacy for "High Culture": He was a strong advocate for "high culture," believing that art and literature had the power to elevate the human spirit and contribute to a better society.
* Emphasis on Style and Form: He stressed the importance of clarity, precision, and elegance in writing. He believed that good writing should be both intellectually stimulating and aesthetically pleasing.
* Focus on "Sweetness and Light": Arnold famously advocated for "sweetness and light," meaning beauty and intellectual clarity, as the goals of good literature and education.
Overall:
Matthew Arnold's writing style is characterized by a combination of formal structure, elegance, and social commentary. He sought to use literature to grapple with the complexities of modern life and to promote a culture of "sweetness and light." His work continues to resonate with readers today for its timeless themes and insightful observations.