I mainly use commas and full stops. I never use semi colons.
I omit commas during dialogue because it helps the conversation to flow..
I mainly use commas and full stops. I never use semi colons.
I omit commas during dialogue because it helps the conversation to flow..
I still think the art is to create pieces of work that don't jar the reading eye. If the punctuation (or lack of it) means you constantly stop to analyse then surely we have failed as writers?
I love the idea of English (or any language) constantly evolving but I also believe that the rules that aid reading are important.
The trouble with breaking the punctuation rules is that you might be seen as not understanding the conventions and be thought of as a 'bad' writer.
I think the skill is is bending the rules you don't like but still adhere to the ones commonly held.
Rules are there to be broken! And don't forget the visual appearance of your words, sentences and paragraphs on the page are valuable tools at your creative disposal too. In fact, they could enhance your writing and it's style, while also giving your work a unique angle.
Check out Toby Barlow's 'Sharp Teeth' and you'll see what I mean.