Book · 2020 · English language
Farnsworth's Classical English Style
Why people recommend it
Farnsworth's Classical English Style is a comprehensive guide by Ward Farnsworth that examines the mechanics, elegance, and historical foundations of effective writing through analysis of master stylists. On an episode of How I Write in December 2025, David Perell discussed this book while wrapping up his interview about the art and craft of memorable writing. Perell noted that he and his guest focused specifically on a select few techniques and highlighted two volumes by the author concerning rhetoric and style as part of a broader series. Among those titles, Perell expressed a particular fondness for the books, emphasizing that he loves both volumes in the sequence while holding a special appreciation for the guide dedicated specifically to style. The discussion served to highlight the practical value of studying classical masters to enhance modern prose and develop a distinct literary voice. Perell's endorsement directed writers and aspiring authors toward timeless principles of composition that help elevate ordinary phrasing into sophisticated and enduring prose, reinforcing the importance of studying foundational texts in the pursuit of writing mastery.
Who recommended it
- David Perell Recommended
David Perell — 1 mention
“You know, we only focused on three techniques and these books, rhetoric and style, classical English style, classical English rhetoric. They're part of a series. These are the two that I love. And especially this one about style.”
Also mentioned in the same episodes
Other mentions (3: passing, ad reads, own books)
“If your readers enjoy this sort of thing, they got a whole book they can read. Let me just do an unapologetic plug for your book. I never do this, but I No, I absolutely love your books. They're so simple. They're so fun to flip through, and everyone who's serious about writing should have definitely rhetoric and style just”
“let me just do an Unapologetic plug for your book I never do this but I no I absolutely love your books they're so simple they're so fun to flip through and everyone who's serious about writing should have definitely rhetoric and style just like lying over their house”
“you know we only focused on three techniques and these books rhetoric and style classical English style classical English rhetoric they're part of a series”