Flatland is a mathematical novel in every way possible. Abbott’s pacing is deliberate and methodical, unfolding with geometric precision. This pacing is not just a stylistic choice but also a thematic one, as it mirrors the orderly, rule-bound world A Square is trying to describe. This, of course, reflects the novel’s setting, but it also helps the reader follow the story in a world with so many new rules to learn. Abbott presents each revelation and new narrative development with the same careful progression as a mathematical equation, ensuring that the reader grasps its complexities before moving on to more abstract concepts. The two-dimensional world is meticulously explained before the three-dimensional world of The Sphere is introduced.
The diction of Flatland is formal, often resembling the scientific papers or educational materials of the Victorian era in which it was written. Abbott's use of mathematical and academic vocabulary not only situates the novel firmly within its historical context, but also adds to the authenticity of its narrative voice. A Square, as the narrator, speaks in a manner befitting his status as an educated member of Flatland society. He is always talking about how precise he and his companions are, and he demonstrates this by only using language that is itself precise and elevated.
The syntax in Flatland is also structured and logical, further reinforcing the novel's sense of mathematical, unbending rigidity. The sentences are constructed with angular clarity and sharpness, reflecting the clearly-drawn lines and rigidity of the Flatland universe. This structured syntax also ensures that Abbott’s complex ideas and descriptions are conveyed clearly. It’s another element of Flatland’s style that allows readers to follow the novel's intricate arguments and theories without confusion.
Figurative language in Flatland is all about geometry and dimension, which is an important part of its many analogies to Victorian Britain. The geometric structures of Flatland are not just physical descriptions but also represent the societal hierarchies and norms of the world Abbott portrays. The novel's use of geometry as a metaphor is integral to both its plot and its meaning. This figurative language extends beyond mere analogy, as the very structure of Flatland society is literally built upon geometric principles. As a novel that's fundamentally based on theoretical concepts, it relies on a highly theoretical mode of stylistic representation.
