What is the author's style in The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan?

The story is written in seventeenth century English, and can, therefore, be difficult for many readers. In addition, verses from the Bible are also included, often with difficult vocabulary and grammatical structures that are not often seen in modern English. Allusions to characters from the Bible occur throughout the story. In particular, Jesus Christ is often alluded to without his name actually being mentioned.

Characters often express their feelings in poems or songs, usually incorporating Biblical images and meaning. The author also uses poetry to open each part of the story. In the first part, the author creates an elaborate explanation of why he has chosen to write this book, reflecting the custom of his time period in regard to religious subjects as being too lofty to be written about in stories. In the second part, the author's tone changes significantly. He has a mock conversation with the book itself, and explains why he has chosen to write about the things he has.