Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Praise, Misery and Humor for Punctuation Sticklers
byThe book “Eats, Shoots & Leaves” is a must-read for writers, particularly if you’re bothered by the misuse of punctuation. If you’re a bit obsessive in this area, you’ll identify with author Lynne Truss’s description of punctuation “sticklers.” From a book excerpt available online:
For any true stickler, you see, the sight of the plural word “Book’s” with an apostrophe in it will trigger a ghastly private emotional process similar to the stages of bereavement, though greatly accelerated.
Sticklers have had reasons to rejoice and cringe in recent weeks.
- A New York Transit employee earned praise – and an article in the Times (registration required) – for his correct semi-colon use on a subway sign. Located under train doors, the sign urges newspaper readers to take their paper with them when they leave: “Please put it in a trash can; that’s good news for everyone.”
- Despite this technology age, apostrophes in names (O’Brien, O’Connor) still baffle many computer systems. An AP story details the explanations, which range from sloppy programming to potential database corruptions. Many people have resorted to living without their apostrophe when they sign up at a health club, use online shopping systems or book flights.
- When sticklers need a laugh, there’s the hilarious “Blog” of “Unnecessary” Quotation Marks. Individuals can submit examples (mostly signage and menus) of well-intentioned quotation marks that make sticklers squirm. A few recent posts:
On a menu: “Thick” French Toast & Sausage
On a building: “God” Bless America
On a sign: “Healthy” Gifts for the Ones You Love
As Truss wrote, you’re either a “punctuation vigilante” or you’re not. For those of us with the affliction, the “blog” is a reassuring reminder we’re not alone.
