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Re: Sometimes rules...
Sometimes, you're right! Sometimes, a thing is thought to be a rule, that is really only what they are used to. The rules that matter, in my opinion, are the ones that actually make a difference in whether what we write and say--how we use words--actually conveys what we mean.
"That's more better" says exactly what you want it to. "Irregardless" does, too, though it sounds ignorant where "that's more better" sounds like having fun with the language. So it falls on the 'eye' of this beholder.
Where commas go, or don't, affects the actual meaning of a statement. Using entirely the wrong word, in the wrong place... metaphors that are really inapt... confusing organization of material... Where the rules serve more than an aesthetic purpose, they are more than subjectively important.
Thanks for your comment, F4T!
posted by
Ciel
on May 12, 2012 at 6:45 AM
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Sometimes rules...
Are in the eye of the, well, ruler. I used to irritate my boss by saying, "that's more better" and he would always comment, "are you sure you finished school?" Yet he would say "irregardless" all the time and found nothing odd about it.
posted by
food4thought
on May 11, 2012 at 11:18 PM
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TAPS, it is a good rule of thumb
to follow the rules you have to, as far as grammar and punctuation, and the organization of material into story--but also trust your intuition, as a very experienced writer and reader. The main rule is to write for the reader to be able to read and enjoy, and tp comprehend what you intend.
posted by
Ciel
on May 10, 2012 at 9:29 AM
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Re: Thanks, TAPS!
Some day, maybe on a drive east with Charlie, we can stop and do that.
posted by
Ciel
on May 10, 2012 at 9:26 AM
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This is a good post. I believe in rules, I try to know the rules, and basically follow the rules of writing, but....when I write, really write...I forget the rules and do my own thing. The rules just kind of follow along and kick me in the shins now and then.
posted by
TAPS.
on May 9, 2012 at 6:00 PM
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Did you see my post " ~ ~ ~ S ~ ~ ~"?
It's got stuff in it about Jack Redding. If you or any of your children or grandchildren would ever like to look through his collection of written works at the Harry S. Truman Library you could make an appointment to do so.
posted by
TAPS.
on May 8, 2012 at 9:53 PM
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