Bill Bennett
Bill Bennett
Does spelling still matter?
Erin Brenner at the Writing Resource asks in a blog post: “Does spelling still matter?”
Yes it does. It still matters.
Some people think worrying about spelling and grammar is anal and backward.
They are wrong.
There are two non-anal reasons why spelling and grammar are important and will remain important for as long as people still read printed words:
First: Well-written, properly spelt (I’m British, this spelling is allowable), grammatically correct English is unambiguous.
Poorly written English is more open to misinterpretation.
If being understood is important, then worry about spelling and grammar.
Second: Well-written text flows, it’s a pleasure to read. It sends readers a message about your professionalism and wisdom. It is credible.
Poorly-written English jerks readers around, causes readers to stumble. They may not realise why this sets off alarm bells in their heads, but it does.
Too much poor English and they’ll question the message. This may not happen on a conscious level. It may not happen with all readers. It will happen enough for it to matter.
Ron Chester Wow, I've been reading your stuff for years. There was never any hint of the brilliance of this piece. It is a masterpiece, utterly unexpected and totally worthy of praise.
Now you can retire. You can never top this and if you become determined to somehow do it, you could work yourself into oblivion trying. So just accept that you did it and let it be. Go on to something else, something entirely different.
Perhaps a sonnet, a mathematical proof, or a collection of irrelevant trivia. Just enjoy yourself for a change.
🎉
Bill Bennett @Ron I don't know why, but your reply reminds me of Woodhouse, especially the last sentence.
After reading his Wooster and Jeeves books as a kind of mental comfort food during the lockdown: I'm alert to the style.
Ron Chester Very interesting. I will seek out his books. I've seen them, but don't think I've ever read them, even though they are famous. I could use some mental comfort food!
Ron Chester @JohnPhilpin You mean P. G., the creator of Jeeves? How am I connected in your mind with such people? Are you starting a fan club?
Ron Chester @JohnPhilpin Aha, now I see again what he wrote. I truly must seek out some Jeeves to read! I could benefit from some comfort.