SECRETS WRITERS KNOW
Punctuation: The Power Of
Every good writer knows it: Every reader should respect it.
Punctuation in skillled hands is a remarkably subtle system of signals,
signs, symbols and winks that keep readers on the smoothest road.
---Rene J. Cappon, The Associated Press Guide to Punctuation.
Highly Recommended:
A dash of style, the art and mastery of punctuation by Noah Lukeman
ISBN 978-0-393-32980-3 pbk, W.W. Norton and Company, 2007
Every Writer should take a good look at this very special book. Why?
Because if you were telling me a story as you sit opposite me, you would have several tools at your command to help make your thoughts clearer:
- facial expressions
- hand gestures
- tone of voice/volume
- pauses, both long and short
- complete stop and change of direction/thought
- wait for answer or comment after asking a question
Skillful use of punctuation compensates for the absence of these "meaning" clues because punctuation adds another dimension to the printed pages to guide the reader through the ideas, actions, and feelings being expressed. It places emphasis. It replaces the visible clues that accompany conversation,
It brings the written page alive for the reader. It ensures that your ideas are given their proper respect and feelings are personally experienced.
Every Reader should take a good look at this very special book. Why?
Because a lot of people don't know how to read. Oh, I'm not talking about the ABCs. I'm talking about meaning and clarity. About understanding and experiencing the written word.
If you don't recognize and honor the function and purpose of punctuation, you will not get the full benefit of what you read. For example:
- That special mark, the comma. The pause that refreshes an idea just read or sets something apart.
- A semicolon says make the pause longer and absorb more.
- Totally stop for a period; shift your mental gears and get ready for a new idea or approach.
- Ask yourself the question being asked.
- Really get the point of an exclamation point.
If the reader does not follow the writer's cues, reading can be as monotonous and meaningless as a Grade-Schooler's read-aloud. The fullness of meaning is lost and memory is cheated.
Try it. You'll like it!
Copyright (c) 2008 by Anne Forrest Elmore
Solarium Analytika
www.newagepublications.com
