The function of prose is to convey meaning to as many readers as possible.  Style, in the sense of being unmistakably oneself, is a by product.  The more one consciously strives for it, the further away one will go from it…

At the same time – and as this book proceeds, the contradictions mount up – you mustn’t write down to your audience, mustn’t be afraid of the most complex constructions, recondite metaphors, the rarest words, as longa s they’re the only ones which will express exactly what you mean.  I’m convinced – and again have only my instincts to back me – that good writing can be understood and enjoyed even when words are used which aren’t known to the general public.  As long as you, the writer, know what they mean, the public will know.