Gripes about the butchering of grammar reached some folks
who have encouraged me to write a blog entry on specific topics. So, I’ll write about one grammatical thing area week. In addition, I’ll
cite the rule from the Harbrace Handbook and then give
examples of incorrect and correct usage. Who knows? Perhaps I can start a
movement where writers actually make concerted efforts to use English grammar
correctly.
My former life as a high school English teacher somewhat
qualifies me to undertake this project. When I discuss a grammatical rule, I do
it knowing that creative writing sometimes demands the breaking with
conventions. Still, our language needs to hold on to “the rules.” If people
begin using their own set of rules, no one will understand what another is
writing before long. Effective written communication is dependent upon
standards by which all content can be judged. In regard to oral English, gross
violations of grammatical rules destroy the message of the speaker.
So, look for my rant on grammar each week. I’ll bet that
many of you might be surprised that you’re using an incorrect form of some
things. Please don’t think that I’m preaching. My intentions are simply to
bring about a bit of correct grammatical construction to the world of writing
and, to a lesser degree, speaking.
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