Let’s rewrite these writing rules

Didit Editorial

9 years ago

Decemer 15, 2015: I might be a stickler when it comes to grammar and spelling, but when it comes to certain writing rules, I’m a rebel. There are three widely-accepted guidelines, in particular, that drive me crazy. These are:

1. Don’t start a sentence with a conjunction. Why not? It helps the writing flow! I think the most effective writing reads like simple, informal speech (unless the author’s last name is Faulkner or Joyce). Then it becomes, in effect, a conversation with the reader rather than words on a page. And why would this be a problem? Or, should I say instead: “It is hard to understand why this would be a problem.” There you go – I immediately made the writing stilted.

2. Don’t end a sentence with a preposition. In some cases, I agree with this rule. But in other cases, I think the rule should be broken. For example, I could say: “This is not an issue on which I’d like to comment.” Alternatively, I could say “This is not an issue I’d like to comment on.” The latter breaks the rule, of course, but it sounds like it comes from a human being rather than a posh character from Downton Abbey or that supercilious English teacher you had in high school.

3. Avoid contractions. Why? It’s such a silly rule. Do you want me to write: “It is such a silly rule?” Again, the strongest writing sounds like everyday speech, with the rhythms of everyday speech. Which version of the “silly rule” statement sounds better to your ears? To me, the version with the contraction sounds far more natural. How many people do you know who go around saying things like: “I would not do that if I were you,” or “I cannot believe it,” or “I have not got a clue.” Downton Abbey characters, again? Warning: They’re fictional.

I suppose that formal writing is necessary from time to time. Perhaps it’s appropriate for legal documents or scientific research papers. But if you’re writing about less esoteric topics, shouldn’t you write in a style that attracts and keeps the attention of readers? If you’ve reached the end of this article, then I suspect you agree. And that’s all I’m going to comment on!