Harmony of Simplicity (Linguopoetics of the «Fourth Russian Book for Reading» by L.N. Tolstoy)

Abstract

In the article the features of the new style of harmonious simplicity of Tolstoy, formed during his work on the creation of the «Great primer» are considered. The ways of rhythmizing the prosaic text, the nature of word usage, the reduction of the number of tropes and the peculiarities of using the small tropeic series, features of non-fiction narrative and techniques for constructing an emotional plot are analyzed through the example of the «Fourth Russian Book for Reading». Tolstoy’s linguopoetic methods, which later became part of the Russian literary tradition, are revealed.