I just posted this on my WriteAtHome page, but I like it, so Im going to share it here too: People often think I am saying there are no rules for grammar and writing conventions in general. Im not saying that. Im saying the rules in many cases are are lot more malleable and subjective than weve been led to believe. Im saying that what fixed rules we do have arent fixed by any identifiable authority other than a general consensus among writers, editors, publishers, teachers, and English speakers in general. Im saying that language inevitably changes over time and that we should embrace that reality rather than try to stand against it (even when the changes dont seem good to us). Im saying that many rules weve come to accept are dubious. Im saying that actual, everyday, popular usage over time is the most important factor of all in what constitutes correct grammar. Im saying that our free market approach to language, where no central authority dictates correctness, is something to be proud of and to take delight in. And Im saying that incessant complainers about popular usage, language purists, and self-proclaimed defenders of English are often annoying and rude and would make life better for themselves and others if they would accept the previous six things that Im saying.
Posted on: Wed, 23 Jul 2014 16:19:51 +0000
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