"If a theme or idea is too near the surface, the novel becomes simply a tract illustrating an idea"

Elizabeth Bowen's quote, "If a style or idea is too near the surface, the novel becomes merely a system showing a concept", recommends a nuanced view on the art of storytelling, especially within the novel format. Bowen highlights the delicate balance an author need to maintain in communicating themes and ideas while ensuring the story stays engaging and complex.

At the heart of her declaration is the notion that literature need to function as an expedition of themes rather than an obvious presentation. When a style is "too near the surface", it loses its subtlety, minimizing the story to a simple, didactic presentation. In this sense, the novel dangers ending up being a "system"-- a term often associated with doctrinaire composing targeted at encouraging or indoctrinating the reader with a specific concept. Rather than welcoming readers to check out, question, and ponder, such a narrative dictates what to think, leaving little room for interpretation or engagement.

Bowen champions the idea that effective storytelling lies in the depth and complexity of styles embedded within the narrative. Themes should act as an undercurrent, enriching the story without subduing it. This enables readers to discover and analyze significances on their own terms, cultivating a more personal and extensive connection with the text. The process of revealing styles ends up being a reflective journey for the reader, mirroring their own ideas, experiences, and insights.

In addition, Bowen's insight touches on the craft of writing itself. Creating a layered narrative where styles are masterfully interwoven needs a sophisticated understanding of both story and structure. Authors need to craft characters, plots, and settings that resonate with much deeper meanings without being overtly explicit. This workmanship encourages readers to think seriously and engage with the text on numerous levels, ultimately offering a richer literary experience.

In essence, Elizabeth Bowen requires a balance between style and narrative substance, highlighting the value of subtlety in storytelling to protect the stability and depth of the unique as a literary form.