Asimov’s writing style is simple and direct. He described of his own work that he had “one cardinal rule in all my writing—to be clear. I have given up all thought of writing poetically or symbolically or experimentally, or in any of the other modes that might (if I were good enough) get me a Pulitzer prize. I would write merely clearly and in this way establish a warm relationship between myself and my readers […]” (Asimov, Isaac. “Author’s Note.” Nemesis, Doubleday, 1989.)

The result is that, in Foundation, description is spare and the plot advances mainly through dialogue. Characters are lightly sketched physically, especially the heroes: Hober Mallow, for example, is “large, both in height and bulk” (202). Antagonists receive more attention, by way of suggesting their unique styles of wickedness. A glance at Commdora Licia, for example, shows that “Her face was pale and coldly formed and her black hair was drawn smoothly and tightly back. Her voice was tart […]” (194). That quick description contains a great deal: The reader understands at once that the woman is proud, elegant, severe, and likely dangerous.

Places and things, meanwhile, receive quick treatment.