Top 9 Best Essays on the Quote 'Style is the Man' by Buy-phong

Literature is a journey from one heart to another, conveyed through the writer's pen. Ultimately, what remains from a work is the unique feature that distinguishes each author. Style in literature, therefore, holds immense importance. Regarding style, the renowned French writer Buy-phong stated, 'Style is the man,' and this assertion is entirely accurate.

What is style? It can be understood as an individual's distinctive manner, a personal flair that sets one apart from another. It reflects the unique traits of a person and manifests in various aspects. In everyday life, there are different styles: fashion, lifestyle, artistic style, and more. Literary style is one of the most important characteristics of an author. It is expressed through their choice of topics, the way they convey their messages, and the methods they use in their storytelling.

Buy-phong's statement, 'Style is the man,' is undeniably true. Observing the world around us, it's clear that no two people are identical, especially in terms of their personality. Different backgrounds, knowledge, interests, and passions make each person's style unique. Literature, too, evolves through different periods, and as it has developed, it has been shaped by numerous generations of writers and poets. Each era brings its own set of characteristics, reflecting the events and cultural shifts of the time. Writers, influenced by their historical context and creative trends, inevitably develop distinct literary styles. These differences contribute to the creation of famous literary figures.

This is evident in the careers and lives of many renowned writers such as Nguyễn Tuân, Nam Cao, Xuân Diệu, and Huy Cận. Take Nguyễn Tuân, for example, known for his pursuit of beauty through a sophisticated, scholarly style. He often approached everything from an artistic perspective, whether before or after the August Revolution of 1945. Nam Cao, on the other hand, is known for focusing on the struggles of Vietnam's peasants, particularly the alienation of their spirit and dignity. Xuân Diệu, the master of love poetry, always centered his works around themes of love.

In terms of artistic style, each writer has their own distinctive characteristics, which are expressed in various ways: narrative techniques, choice of literary devices, structure, and language. Poet Tố Hữu often chose the six-eight meter form, with a tender and affectionate tone to convey deep feelings. Nam Cao stood out for his non-linear narrative style and skillful paragraph transitions. Nguyễn Minh Châu, with his multi-faceted view of characters and profound philosophical language, created masterful plot situations. Many other writers and poets also bring unique styles to their works.

A writer’s style leaves a lasting impression on readers when they encounter a short story or poem. Only truly talented writers can establish their own unique style. Style reveals the writer's personal views on literature. Through the content and artistic style of their work, readers can perceive the author's personality. For instance, Nam Cao’s seemingly cold writing often hides a deep empathy and heartfelt love for humanity. Those who knew Nam Cao in real life recall him as a reserved, quiet person, but behind this exterior was a passionate, determined spirit.

For these reasons, we can confidently say that 'style is the man.' Style creates individuality, leaving an unmistakable mark on writers. Every author must develop their own style to leave a personal impression on readers and in the literary world, much like someone once said, 'You are nothing without your own voice.'

People are not born the same; each individual has distinct qualities that make them unique, and these characteristics are often referred to as 'style.' The famous French writer Buy-phong once said, 'Style is the person.'

This is true! Style is indeed a reflection of the person. But what exactly is style? In a narrower sense, style refers to the unique way in which an author or artist expresses themselves through their creative work. It encompasses systematic artistic thoughts, aesthetic characteristics, and stable forms of expression that create the author’s unique value. In a broader sense, style can be understood as the demeanor, manner, and moral qualities that have become ingrained in a person or a group of people, manifesting in all aspects of their life and creating their distinctive traits. Style thus becomes a guiding principle that shapes human behavior and eventually forms habits and established ways of thinking, expressing, and acting. For every individual, their style is closely tied to traditional traits, lifestyle habits, and the circumstances they live in, while also carrying a clear personal stamp. From childhood, we all develop our own style, and each style carries with it a sense of confidence.

In our daily lives, we often hear about different types of style, such as fashion style, lifestyle, artistic style, etc. When it comes to fashion, people often comment on someone's fashion style, such as the 'baby doll' or 'girly' style. From these comments, we can see that everyone, or every group of people, chooses their own unique fashion style based on what they like. Some people prefer a sexy, alluring style, while others may go for a cute or simple and pure look. Not only in everyday fashion, but we can also observe styles in singers. A singer's style is reflected in the songs they perform. A singer who sings ballads will have a different style compared to one who performs rock or revolutionary music. Apart from their wardrobe, people also associate a singer with a particular music genre. These distinctions contribute to creating the singer’s unique style.

In literature, the writer's style is also expressed in both content and artistry. In terms of content, the writer’s style is evident in their worldview, choice of topics, the way they present issues, and their treatment of human life. This is clearly demonstrated by many authors such as Nguyễn Tuân, Nam Cao, and Hồ Chí Minh. Nguyễn Tuân, for example, always approached everything from the perspective of artistry. Before the August Revolution of 1945, he admired the refined tastes of the old Confucian scholars, who found pleasure in activities like poetry, tea-drinking, and recitation. After the revolution, Nguyễn Tuân was fascinated by the artistry of Vietnamese people engaged in labor and production. Nam Cao, on the other hand, focused on the suffering of the Vietnamese peasantry, exploring the moral and spiritual degradation of the poor farmers or the pain of intellectuals constrained by the demands of survival. As for artistic style, writers demonstrate diversity in their choice of expression, artistic techniques, structural organization, and language use.

This is particularly evident in the works of prominent authors. The poet Tố Hữu, for example, often chose the hexameter form with a sweet, heartfelt tone to convey the deep emotions of the characters in his poetry. Nam Cao, on the other hand, is easily recognized for his modern, non-linear narrative style and masterful use of transitions. Each writer brings unique ideas to how they present their works. And for readers, there is nothing more enjoyable than discovering the distinctive elements of an author’s style when reading a short story or poem. Only truly talented writers and poets can establish their own unique style, which is intrinsically linked to their personal characteristics.

In literature, style becomes a vivid manifestation of the author’s personal views on literature. In Nam Cao’s short stories, for example, there is an apparent objectivity and indifference toward the characters. He refers to them in detached terms like 'he' or 'she,' often describing them in unattractive, even grotesque terms (particularly the peasant characters). However, behind this seemingly cold and dismissive style lies a deep, empathetic heart and a compassion that pierces through the coldness, revealing a genuine love and understanding for the characters. In real life, Nam Cao’s friends would remember him as a quiet, reserved person, but beneath this calm exterior was a passionate and determined spirit. It is only someone with strong character who can make statements like, 'Live first, then write!' The style of the writer is imprinted in every page of their work, and in turn, the literary style of each author leaves a profound impact on readers, forging a deep connection between writers, poets, and their devoted readers.

All styles, across different fields and aspects of life, signify one important truth: style is the person. Style reflects a person’s essence, creates distinctions between individuals, and contributes to the diversity of life. This reinforces the validity and significance of Buy-phong’s statement: 'Style is the person.'

The famous French writer Buy-phong once wrote: 'Style is the person.' This creative perspective on literature reflects the close connection between an author and the elements that define their uniqueness. Buy-phong's assertion suggests that style is not merely a superficial trait but a deep reflection of an author's personal identity, evident in their literary works— their intellectual children. These works reveal 'uncharted territories' discovered and explored by the author, allowing them to carve out their place in the competitive world of literature. It’s essential to understand that a writer's style is refined through two main aspects: the content and the artistry of their work.

In terms of content, a writer's style becomes evident in their worldview and the themes they choose to explore. The way a writer interprets human life and chooses their topics also defines their style. This is clearly seen in the works of many writers like Nguyễn Tuân, Nam Cao, and Hồ Chí Minh. Nguyễn Tuân, for example, is known for perceiving everything through the lens of artistry. Before the August Revolution of 1945, he found beauty in the refined activities of the old Confucian scholars, such as composing poetry, drinking tea, and reciting verses. After the revolution, however, his admiration shifted to the artistry of Vietnamese people engaged in labor and production.

Take Nam Cao as another example. Before the revolution, his works often centered on the hardships of Vietnamese peasants and the degradation of their spirits and dignity. He portrayed intellectuals trapped by the harsh realities of survival. As for Nam Cao's artistic style, it was diverse and effective across various aspects: his narrative techniques, choice of literary devices, structure, and language use all contributed to his distinct style.

Each author develops unique ideas in how they express their works. For readers, discovering the distinctive elements of an author’s style is a joy when reading short stories or poetry. Only truly gifted writers and poets can shape a style that is uniquely their own, standing apart from others.

In literature, an author’s style is often intertwined with their personal identity and character. A good example is Nam Cao, whose writing is marked by an apparent coldness, yet it conveys a deep humanitarian spirit. His style evokes a sense of detachment while revealing profound empathy. In real life, his friends remember him as a quiet, reserved person, yet beneath that calm exterior was a fiery and determined spirit. This contrast makes his style even more compelling.

Buy-phong’s idea serves as a valuable lesson for both writers and aspiring authors, encouraging them to carve out a unique style. A writer must develop a distinctive voice that stands out in the literary world, asserting their individuality and securing their place in the field of literature.

Each person who enters this world starts as a blank canvas, pure and immaculate. Although it's evident that not everyone shares the same starting point due to societal divisions, this doesn't hinder one's journey toward self-improvement and maturity. As we step into a vibrant world, it's certain that everyone, consciously or unconsciously, strives to craft their unique style. This style becomes their personal signature, carving out a space in life that is distinct and meaningful. After all, no one desires to live in the shadows; everyone carries an inner self, eager to shine and explore. Regarding the concept of style, the famous French writer Buy-phong once said, 'Style is the person.' This notion defines humanity itself.

So, what exactly is style? One common definition is that style is the sum of individual habits, behaviors, and manners that distinguish a person or group from others. People express style in various aspects of their lives, such as fashion, makeup, and lifestyle. Sometimes, the formal term 'style' is replaced with more casual expressions like 'way' or 'approach,' such as 'way of living,' 'way of dressing,' 'way of speaking.' In the realm of literature and art, an artist is recognized through their artistic style, linguistic style, creative approach, and mode of expression. No matter the field, style exists and helps distinguish individuals, making life more colorful and diverse. Therefore, Buy-phong's saying 'Style is the person' holds truth. A person is made up of many styles across various domains, all blending together to form their unique identity. In turn, style plays a significant role in shaping one's place in society. Everyone has their own style; the key is whether they recognize and embrace it.

First, let’s consider the concept of style for ordinary people. Should we live without creating our own style? I've often heard opinions suggesting that style is a distant concept, too disconnected from reality, and that ordinary people should live simply without fussing over 'styles'—trivial and unnecessary. However, this viewpoint is flawed. The first mistake is not understanding what style truly means. Many mistakenly believe style is reserved for the famous or for artists, as seen in media buzzwords like 'sexy style,' 'girl-next-door style,' 'fashion style,' or 'artistic style.' This misconception prevents people from asserting their personal identity through developing their own style, often leading them to make juvenile attempts at self-expression that come across as laughable. We must realize that personal style is fundamental. It is what gives us charm and appeal; without it, we become bland and unremarkable. A life without style quickly becomes boring and dull. Above all, having a unique style satisfies one's inner self, quietly affirming who we are in a meaningful way.

Let me illustrate the importance of style by examining literature. Literary works are often regarded as the artist’s heartfelt creations, with two major elements: content and style. While many writers may tackle the same topic, they each leave a distinct mark on the reader's mind, thanks to their unique artistic approach and perspective. For example, Thach Lam’s stories often lack a central plot, yet his writing exudes romance, melancholy, and an emphasis on the beauty in the mundane. As he himself said, 'Beauty is everywhere in the universe, hidden in ordinary things. A writer’s job is to uncover and showcase this hidden beauty, offering the reader a fresh perspective.' Similarly, Nguyễn Công Hoan’s works highlight the suffering of the oppressed under colonial rule, but his humor adds a layer of bittersweet irony, while Vũ Trọng Phụng's sharp satire can shock readers with its rawness. Nam Cao, on the other hand, writes in a simple, moving style, with deep philosophical reflections on life and writing. Modern Vietnamese poetry also showcases a wide range of styles, from Quang Dũng’s romanticism to Tố Hữu’s idealism. Clearly, every writer, poet, and artist must cultivate their own style to attract readers and carve out their place in the artistic world. Without style, they risk being lost among countless other talented individuals.

Now, let’s consider artists in other fields, such as singers, actors, and models. Young people, especially, are familiar with the Korean entertainment industry, where hundreds of music groups debut every year, yet only a few rise to stardom. What sets them apart? The key is in their unique style—whether it’s their music genre, their persona, or the combination of both. Whether a singer chooses pop, ballad, or rock, and whether their image is youthful and energetic, innocent and cute, or strong and charismatic, these elements come together to leave a lasting impression on their audience. This distinction helps solidify their place in the industry and makes their name recognizable.

Thus, the importance of establishing a personal style is clear, and the examples above demonstrate how Buy-phong’s belief that 'Style is the person' holds true, even to the point of becoming a defining symbol of that individual. In life, do we want to be noticed, remembered, and recognized for our personal identity? I believe most of us do. However, since we are not all artists, we may not create our style through our work but through our everyday lives. Or, perhaps we can view life itself as a grand performance, and each of us is an artist with our own unique approach (laughs). We create our style through personal interactions, work habits, fashion choices, and our approach to life itself. Whether we choose a calm, peaceful existence or a lively, vibrant one, our style reflects who we are. In addition to these aspects, there are countless others that contribute to our overall style, such as our tastes in food, views on politics, aesthetics, and our values regarding life, the world, and relationships. All these elements come together to create a style that is truly our own—distinct, meaningful, and identifiable. It is like a work of art, a song, or a fingerprint—something that marks us as unique in the world.

If you’ve read my analysis and found that you, too, have a distinct style, you might still feel somewhat insignificant in society. Perhaps you wonder why some people get noticed while others seem to fade into the background. This is common because human brains tend to remember things that leave a strong impression—whether it's appearance, abilities, or unique views. Don’t feel discouraged. Instead, focus on highlighting your personal style in areas where you can improve, such as your thoughts, work style, or fashion choices. Never try to imitate someone else. You may borrow ideas, but copying someone else’s style won’t work, as it’s unlikely to match who you are. Style comes from within, reflecting your soul and personality, and it’s something you create for yourself.

In conclusion, Buy-phong’s statement 'Style is the person' is true in all contexts, not just among artists and writers. We all live on this earth, and even if we desire a simple life, we must still build a beautiful personal style that leaves a positive impression on those around us. We are all part of a grand design, and we should live fully, not merely exist as a vague presence.

The famous French writer Buffon once stated, "Style is the person." At first glance, this might seem confusing, as one may wonder how something can represent a person. However, upon deeper reflection, the statement reveals its truth.

Indeed, a person is a person, but have you ever noticed that no two people are exactly the same? The first difference we notice is usually in appearance, but even people who look identical still possess distinct characteristics, especially when it comes to personality. Each individual’s personality is unique, and as a result, each person’s style is also different. In simple terms, style is the distinct demeanor, the unique flair of an individual. It is something personal that cannot be replicated. And so, style endows each person with a unique value. A person’s style is influenced by many factors, including genetics and the environment, but each style has its own charm and beauty.

The concept of style is vast, as it permeates every area of life. For instance, there are styles in fashion, art, and lifestyle, and within each of these broad categories, there are even more specific styles. In fashion, one can find classic, modern, edgy, or sweet styles, to name a few. People’s preferences vary, and this leads them to choose different styles that resonate with them. Similarly, in music, every artist has their own unique style. Whether it's country music, rock, or another genre, each artist’s distinct style is what defines them in the eyes of the public.

When it comes to literature, there are countless styles, each belonging to a different writer. An author’s style is reflected in both the content of their work and the way it is presented. To understand the unique style of an author, one must consider the themes they explore, how they develop those themes, and their views on life and humanity. For example, Tản Đà’s style was bold and rebellious, Nguyễn Công Trứ had a carefree and free-spirited style, while Nam Cao’s works conveyed a deep empathy for the struggles of the rural poor under colonial oppression. The way they express themselves, their choice of words, and their tone all contribute to the distinct style of each writer. For instance, when reading the sweet and heartfelt poems of Tố Hữu, one immediately associates them with his love for his homeland and for Hồ Chí Minh.

Demonstrating one’s style and allowing others to recognize it is an exceptional skill. Some individuals spend their entire lives searching for their own style, as only when one discovers their style can they leave a lasting impression and be remembered.

In conclusion, we can affirm that style truly is the person. It shapes the individuality of a person, fosters understanding between people, and adds richness and diversity to life. It makes life more interesting and exciting. Buffon’s statement carries profound meaning.

"Literature doesn’t require skillful craftsmen following a set of templates… Literature welcomes those who can delve deep into thought, unearth uncharted ideas, and create something new," said the writer Nam Cao, emphasizing the importance of personal creativity for anyone wielding the pen. He argued that writers should leave their unique mark on literature. Similarly, the French writer Buffon’s belief, "Style is the person," suggests that a writer’s style is inherently tied to their individuality, reflecting the relationship between the writer and their personal experiences.

In Buffon’s statement, "Style" refers to the unique characteristics that each writer exhibits in their work. These are the unexplored territories that the writer uncovers, and the distinct sweetness that comes from their discoveries. Style is reflected in both the content and artistic expression of a writer’s work.

In terms of content, a writer’s style is most evident in their worldview, the choice of themes, how they build their stories, and their interpretations of human life. This is clearly visible in the works of many writers such as Nguyễn Tuân, Nam Cao, and Hồ Chí Minh. Nguyễn Tuân often portrayed the beauty of life from the perspective of artistry. Before the August Revolution of 1945, he found elegance in the refined pursuits of the old Confucian scholars: composing poetry, drinking tea, and reciting verses. After the Revolution, his focus shifted to celebrating the artistry of the Vietnamese people in their labor and production. Nam Cao, on the other hand, had a different approach. Before the Revolution, he was deeply moved by the plight of the enslaved Vietnamese peasants, who were spiritually and morally degraded, as well as the intellectuals tormented by poverty.

In terms of artistic expression, a writer’s style manifests in various aspects such as narrative technique, the choice of literary devices, structure, and language. This is particularly noticeable in the works of prominent authors. Poet Tố Hữu is known for his use of the traditional six-eight verse form and a tender, emotional tone to express deep affection and sincerity. Writer Nam Cao can be easily identified by his non-linear storytelling and masterful transitions between paragraphs.

Each writer brings their own unique ideas to the way they express their works. For readers, there is nothing more enjoyable than discovering the distinct elements that make up an author’s style when reading a short story or a poem. Only truly talented writers can shape a style that is distinctly their own. Within the style of each writer, there is a strong connection to their personal character. In literature, style is as vivid as a living entity, reflecting personal beliefs about the art form. For instance, Nam Cao’s short stories often present characters in a detached and impersonal manner. He refers to them as "he" or "she" and depicts them with unflattering or even grotesque features, especially the peasants. But behind these seemingly cold, dismissive depictions lies a compassionate and empathetic heart, one that deeply understands the pain of the oppressed.

In real life, Nam Cao’s personality mirrored the tone of his writing. Those who knew him recalled his calm, reserved demeanor, but beneath that quiet exterior was a passionate and determined spirit. It is only with strong personalities that one can say, "Live fully first, then write!" A writer’s style is imprinted on every page they write, and in turn, the style of each writer leaves a lasting impression on the reader, creating a deep emotional connection between authors and their audiences.

With his insightful perspective, Buffon encouraged writers to define their unique style, a style that would make them instantly recognizable to readers. Similarly, readers must become discerning and thoughtful, recognizing the individual styles of each writer they encounter.

Leo Tolstoy once said, "When a writer enters the literary world, the first thing I will ask is: what new thing will you bring to literature?" The law of literary rejection is tough and unforgiving. As Tolstoy expressed, "Literature doesn’t need craftsmen who follow templates... it only embraces those who can delve deep, uncover what no one else has, and create something truly original." Buffon, too, emphasized the role of style in art when he said, "Style is the person."

Style represents the unique qualities of a writer in their perception and representation of life, conveyed through both content and artistic form. According to Buffon, style reveals the artist's distinct features, reflecting both their thoughts and emotional world.

"Style is the person" because it expresses the artist’s personal way of perceiving life. As Hoai Thanh once said, "A writer cannot transcend the world, but the world in the eyes of a writer must have its own unique shape." Creativity is the essence of literature, and a writer cannot simply copy another’s viewpoint or feelings. If they do, they transform their work into mass production and reduce literature to a factory farm. For example, both Nam Cao and Kim Lan write about poverty, yet they approach it differently: "The real exploration does not lie in uncharted lands but in the eyes that see it anew." Nam Cao views hunger as a test of human dignity and character, while Kim Lan, from the same theme of hunger, sees it as a spark of life, a desire to survive rising within the impoverished peasants. From this, Nam Cao’s cold, sharp exterior contrasts with his warm interior, while Kim Lan’s style reflects a compassionate, rooted love for the Vietnamese countryside.

Style also showcases the artist’s need for creative expression, proving their strength, and continuously seeking something new to bring life and allure to their work. The artist cannot follow worn-out paths or tread where others have already been. In the forest of literature, they must seek "paths that have never been walked." As the saying goes, "No one wants to be like anyone else." Without innovation and change, will future generations remember them, or will the dust of time erase their name from the literary monument? The drive to seek new forms is not just an internal urge; it is also a way to ensure that the artist remains relevant to the ever-changing world. After 1975, Vietnamese literature underwent a profound transformation.

The epic trend and romantic inspiration with idealized heroes were no longer in tune with the complex, post-war reality. Against this backdrop, Nguyễn Minh Châu emerged as the "brilliant pathfinder" of Vietnamese literature. His courage remained, but his approach to writing evolved. His works, filled with multiple meanings, exemplify his contemplative, philosophical nature. In his work "The Ship Beyond the Horizon," the boat not only represents the beauty of nature but also symbolizes the relationship between art and life. Seen from a distance, the boat appears as a beautiful, poetic image, but inside, it holds the bitter truths of life. The boat, therefore, is a call for artists to dive deep into reality, uncovering the complexities of life.

"Through the singer’s voice, we recognize the singer.
Through the engraver’s mark, we recognize the silversmith."

And through style, we recognize the artist. As Proust said, "The world is created not once but each time a unique artist appears, the world is created anew."

"Style (…) is like color to an artist, it’s not a matter of technique but a matter of perspective. It is a revelation, something that cannot be achieved through direct and conscious means, about the essential differences in how the world presents itself to each of us—a difference that, without art, would remain the eternal secret of each individual."

In other words, an author's style is not simply a technical issue or just an external decoration of a literary work, but rather it is a deeply personal way of seeing the world, distinguishing each person’s perspective from others. Every individual is born with a unique temperament, capability, and experience, which allows them to embrace the good and reject the bad. Over time, this process forms in us a distinct personality, which we call style. In this light, the French writer Buffon famously stated, "Style is the person." Indeed, under the same circumstances, each person's style is not identical, but rather it is an expression of the person who embodies it. Reflecting on Buffon’s words, we can deepen our understanding and begin to shape our own unique style. In life, people typically define style in two ways. First, artistic style—such as that of a writer, poet, architect, or the style of a specific era.

Second, there is the style or demeanor of an individual or a group within society, formed relatively stable over time, creating the unique style of that person or group. While styles are varied, they often evoke the personal mark of the object. Furthermore, a common thread among all forms of style is the strong influence of the environment—cultural traditions, moral values, and professional psychology. Looking at it from a literary perspective, style is equally diverse, but no less profound.

Buffon’s insight, "Style is the person," is truly insightful. In literature, style is an indispensable element that shapes a work. Readers and literary critics, when analyzing a piece of writing, often focus on two key aspects: content and artistry. Regarding content, style represents a personal perspective on humanity and life, an interpretation of both. In terms of artistry, style reflects the choice of artistic techniques, language structure, and the use of language itself. A great work is judged by its ability to leave a distinct impression and evoke delicate emotional shifts in the reader. Therefore, in any context, when evaluating a work or an individual, style is both a crucial criterion and a reflection of the character and soul of the creator. Let’s take a small corner of Vietnamese literature to illustrate and clarify Buffon’s idea that "Style is the person."

When discussing Vietnamese literature, I begin to perceive the connection between style and identity. Nguyễn Đăng Mạnh in "The Writer, Thought, and Style" associated style with the writer's personality, noting: "Literature is a form of social consciousness with its own distinct features. It requires talent, craftsmanship, personality, and style." Later, in "Modern Vietnamese Writers: Portraits and Style," he once again emphasized that style "depends on the psychological habits and individual preferences of the writer." From this, we see the emergence of distinct literary styles, such as Nguyễn Tuân’s flamboyance, Quang Dũng’s artistic elegance, Nguyễn Đình Thi’s depiction of a majestic yet tragic Vietnam, Hoàng Cầm’s poetic connection to the ancient Kinh Bắc region, and Nguyên Ngọc’s epic, romantic prose. Even Đào Thái Tôn, in his analysis of Hồ Xuân Hương’s poetry, used the "Lưu Hương Ký" style to define the "folk poetry" of the famous female poet.

Style is diverse and profound in every domain. Literature is just one lens through which I explore the complexity of human nature. I’ve come to realize that Buffon’s statement is full of nuance. As I mentioned earlier, definitions can often be vague. For example, the poetry of Hồ Xuân Hương is joyful without being frivolous, and Hoàng Cầm’s work is the spirit of ancient Kinh Bắc. These attributes can be applied to the person of Hồ Xuân Hương or Hoàng Cầm themselves, as well as to their poetry—it works both ways. This ambiguity, this "blurriness," is what makes Buffon’s concept so powerful—it allows readers to form multiple interpretations. This is the elegance and creativity Buffon employed when analyzing issues.

Of course, not every piece of art has style. A work only achieves style when it attains structural coherence, when all its parts form an organic whole. Thus, knowing one part can lead us to understand the entire piece, as the theory of gestalt suggests. Since style is a quality of excellence, having style in art is a rare and valuable phenomenon. And so, not every author, genre, or era possesses style.

From this, every student, upon reflecting on Buffon’s words, should cultivate the habit of looking at life’s challenges with clarity and subtlety. They should also continuously refine their vocabulary and use it flexibly. This is the necessary and sufficient condition to begin developing a personal style, one that reflects our individual identity in life.

"Style is the person"—Buffon has provided us with a profound insight, a lesson as we step into life. Personally, my effort to create a unique style and personality will be the motivation that helps me overcome every challenge in life!

An artist once said, "Writing poetry without a unique voice is like jumping into a rushing river without knowing how to swim." An artist’s style is of immense importance. The famous French writer Buffon once wrote, "Style is the person." The style of an artist expresses their entire being and serves as a hallmark that readers recognize as the artist’s presence.

An artist’s literary style is the mastery of language used to offer readers a fresh, unparalleled perspective on life and humanity, conveyed through unique artistic imagery and methods that leave a personal imprint. This distinctive perspective and approach must be consistently reiterated and stable throughout an artist’s body of work. Artistic style can be revealed through three core elements: a way of perceiving the world, tone, and choices made in handling themes, constructing subjects, and crafting descriptions.

Hoài Thanh once said, "To love a poem is to love a perspective, a person." When writing poetry, the artist embeds their hopes, emotions, and spirit into every verse. Poetry becomes a tool for revealing one’s soul. The artistic style an artist expresses in their work is nothing but the manifestation of their inner self. When we read a literary work, we encounter a person’s soul. When we recognize a style, we are recognizing the person behind it. Style is the person.

This is why we can easily recognize Xuân Quỳnh through "Sóng" or Nguyễn Tuân through "The Boatman of the Đà River." Reading "Sóng", the reader perceives feminine qualities, a longing for everyday happiness, and a blend of traditional and modern beauty. That is Xuân Quỳnh’s style. Reading the intense river waves in "The Boatman of the Đà River", the reader also recognizes Nguyễn Tuân’s profound literary skill and his eye for the grandeur, ferocity, and beauty of nature. This stands in stark contrast to the sophisticated, lyrical, and sentimental style found in Hoàng Phủ Ngọc Tường’s "Who Named the River?"

Thus, it is clear that the most important thing for a writer is their unique voice. Style is the first and foremost element that readers remember an artist by, the mark the artist leaves on their audience. Style is also the embodiment of the writer’s soul, a revealing of their inner self. Every artist’s style originates from their very being. Xuân Diệu, with his burning passion and yearning for youth and love, creates poems like, "Oh red spring, I want to bite into you." Quang Dũng, with his romantic, elegant nature, writes lines like, "At night, I dream of Hanoi, with a delicate fragrance"—right next to verses filled with the smoke of bombs and illness. Style is the essence of the artist themselves. The soul of the artist shines through their written work.

Literature is essentially the artist. This is why style is so vital in literature. "When a writer appears, the first thing we need to ask is what new contribution they have made to life" (Maxim Gorky). From this, we learn that creative individuals must infuse their unique style into their works. And readers, when engaging with a literary work, must also appreciate the style expressed within it.

"Style is the person." To be a person, one must have style, and to be an artist, it is even more essential. Without style, an artist is like a firefly that briefly shines and then vanishes.