Elements Of Style Discussion Questions

1. What is the rule for forming the possessive singular of nouns according to Chapter 1 of 'Elements of Style'?

The rule states that to form the possessive singular of nouns, you should add 's to the noun regardless of the final consonant. For instance, it should be 'Charles’s friend', 'Burns’s poems', and 'the witch’s malice'. There are exceptions for certain ancient proper names ending in -es and -is, such as 'Jesus’.' Some examples provided in the text include 'the laws of Moses' replacing 'Moses’ laws' and 'the temple of Isis' instead of 'Isis’ temple'. Additionally, pronominal possessives such as 'hers', 'its', 'theirs', 'yours', and 'ours' do not take an apostrophe, whereas indefinite pronouns do, like 'one’s rights' or 'somebody else’s umbrella'.

2. What guidance does Chapter 1 give regarding the use of commas in a series of terms?

Chapter 1 advises that when listing three or more terms with a single conjunction, a comma should be placed after each term except the last. This is referred to as the 'serial comma'. For example, one should write 'red, white, and blue' and 'gold, silver, or copper'. The chapter notes that in the names of businesses, it is common to omit the last comma, as seen in 'Little, Brown and Company' and 'Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette'.

3. How should parenthetical expressions be punctuated according to this chapter?

Parenthetical expressions should be enclosed between commas. For example, in the sentence 'The best way to see a country, unless you are pressed for time, is to travel on foot,' the phrase 'unless you are pressed for time' is a parenthetical expression set off by commas. The chapter emphasizes that if there is only one comma included, the other must not be omitted, highlighting that punctuation conveys clarity and continuity in writing. Additionally, certain phrases that provide supplementary information should also be clearly delineated with commas.

4. What are the rules for using colons as stated in Chapter 1?

Chapter 1 states that a colon should be used after an independent clause to introduce a list of particulars, an appositive, amplification, or an illustrative quotation. A colon indicates that what follows is closely related to the preceding clause. It is important to avoid separating a verb from its complement or a preposition from its object with a colon. Examples of proper usage include 'Your dedicated whittler requires: a knife, a piece of wood, and a back porch' and 'But even so, there was a directness and dispatch about animal burial: there was no stopover in the undertaker’s foul parlor, no wreath or spray.'

5. What does Chapter 1 specify about the agreement between subjects and verbs?

Chapter 1 specifies that the number of the subject determines the number of the verb. This means that if a subject is singular, the verb must also be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb must be plural. Furthermore, words that intervene between the subject and the verb do not affect the number of the verb. For example, in the sentence 'The bittersweet flavor of youth — its trials, its joys, its adventures, its challenges — are not soon forgotten,' the correct form should be 'is not soon forgotten' because 'flavor' is singular. Additionally, compound subjects formed with 'and' generally require a plural verb.

1. What is the fundamental principle of composition according to Chapter 2, and why is it important?

The fundamental principle of composition articulated in Chapter 2 of "Elements of Style" is to "Choose a suitable design and hold to it." This principle emphasizes the necessity for writers to establish a structural framework for their work. A well-defined design not only aids the writer in organizing their thoughts but also ensures that the writing is coherent and distinct. When writers perceive and pursue a clear shape or structure, they have a better chance of conveying their message effectively, helping readers to follow and understand the content.

2. How does Chapter 2 define the purpose and structure of paragraphs in writing?

Chapter 2 defines the paragraph as the fundamental unit of composition, suggesting that each paragraph should correspond to a single topic. This structure aids readers by signaling a new stage in the development of the subject. Paragraphs can vary in length but should remain cohesive. Writers are encouraged to examine their work post-completion to determine if topic divisions enhance clarity. The chapter also notes that dialogue is typically structured with each speaker's turn starting a new paragraph, reinforcing clarity in communication.

3. What is the significance of using the active voice as recommended in Chapter 2?

The chapter advocates using the active voice because it tends to create more direct, vigorous, and concise writing. Sentences written in the active voice are clearer to readers and typically convey a sense of immediacy. For example, the phrase "I shall always remember my first visit to Boston" actively places the subject (the writer) at the forefront. Contrarily, using the passive voice can result in vague and less engaging sentences. While passive voice may have its place, the habitual preference for active voice generally enhances the liveliness and authority of writing.

4. In what ways does the chapter suggest eliminating unnecessary words, and why is this important?

The chapter emphasizes that vigorous writing is concise, urging writers to avoid superfluous words to enhance clarity and impact. By removing unnecessary words, sentences become sharper and readers can grasp the intended message without distraction. For instance, instead of saying "the question as to whether," one could simply say "whether." This not only streamlines the sentence but also upholds the principle that every word should serve a distinct purpose. Conciseness helps maintain reader engagement and conveys confidence in the writer's assertions.

5. What guidance does Chapter 2 provide regarding the arrangement of related words in sentences?

Chapter 2 advises that the order of words within a sentence is crucial for clarity, as the placement reveals the relationships between concepts. Keeping related words together minimizes confusion and ambiguity. For example, rather than saying "He noticed a large stain in the rug that was right in the center," it is clearer to say "He noticed a large stain right in the center of the rug." This practice allows readers to easily identify the subject and its modifications, resulting in coherent and well-structured sentences.

1. What is the guideline regarding the use of colloquialisms in writing as outlined in Chapter 3?

The guideline states that if a writer uses a colloquialism or a slang word or phrase, it should be used without drawing attention to it by enclosing it in quotation marks. Doing so is seen as pretentious, implying the writer is inviting the reader to join an exclusive circle of those who are considered knowledgeable.

2. How does the chapter suggest handling exclamation marks in writing?

The chapter advises against using exclamation marks to emphasize simple statements. Instead, the exclamation mark should be reserved for true exclamations or commands. For example, instead of writing 'It was a wonderful show!' the correct usage would be 'It was a wonderful show.' However, in the context of a true exclamation like 'What a wonderful show!' it is appropriate to use an exclamation mark.

3. What are the formatting guidelines for headings in a manuscript according to Chapter 3?

Headings should be positioned at least a quarter of the way down the first page of a manuscript, leaving sufficient space at the top for editorial notes. After the heading, a blank line or equivalent space should be included. On subsequent pages, the heading should start near the top, but not too close to prevent a crowded appearance. It is important to omit the period after a title or heading, but question marks or exclamation points may be used as needed.

4. What rules regarding hyphenation are laid out in the chapter?

The chapter outlines that hyphens are required when combining two or more words to form a compound adjective, as in 'leisure-class pursuits' or 'round-the-island race.' However, a hyphen should not be used if the words can be better written as a single word (e.g., 'waterfowl'). The text also notes that while common sense helps determine hyphen usage, consulting a dictionary is more reliable.

5. What guidelines does Chapter 3 provide regarding quotations and punctuation?

When introducing formal quotations, a colon should precede them, and they must be enclosed in quotation marks. If a quotation is grammatically part of a sentence, it should be preceded by a comma. The chapter emphasizes that the final punctuation, typically a comma, should be placed inside the quotation marks. Additionally, quotations of entire lines or longer passages should start on a new line and be indented, omitting quotation marks unless they are in the original text.

1. What is the main focus of Chapter 4 of 'The Elements of Style' by William Strunk Jr.?

Chapter 4 primarily addresses words and expressions that are commonly misused in English writing. Strunk explains that many of these misuses are not strictly about incorrect grammar but rather about poor style and careless writing habits. The chapter emphasizes the importance of choosing precise and appropriate words to convey clear and definite meaning, rather than vague generalities.

2. What does Strunk suggest replacing the vague generality with in writing?

Strunk suggests replacing vague generalities with definite statements. He stresses that good writing should be precise, where every word chosen adds specific meaning to the text rather than contributing to ambiguity or generalization. This improvement in clarity is essential for effective communication in writing.

3. How does Strunk differentiate between 'allude' and 'elude'?

Strunk clarifies that 'allude' means to make an indirect reference to something, while 'elude' refers to evading or escaping from someone or something. Additionally, he points out that 'allude' is not synonymous with 'refer'—where 'refer' denotes a direct mention, 'allude' implies a subtler acknowledgment of its subject.

4. What are some examples of commonly misused words that Strunk discusses, and what are their correct usages?

Strunk discusses various commonly misused words, including: - 'Aggravate' vs. 'Irritate': 'Aggravate' means to worsen a situation, while 'irritate' means to annoy. - 'All right' should be written as two words, not 'alright'. - 'Data': Traditionally, 'data' is a plural noun and should be used with plural verbs, although singular usage is gaining acceptance. - 'Effect' (noun) vs. 'Affect' (verb): 'Effect' refers to a result, while 'affect' means to influence. Each example illustrates the importance of using the correct term to maintain clarity and precision in writing.

5. What advice does Strunk give regarding the use of 'hopefully'?

Strunk advises against the use of 'hopefully' as a way to mean 'I hope' or 'it is to be hoped.' He explains that this use is incorrect and can lead to ambiguity. Instead, he recommends straightforward formulations that clearly express hope, such as directly saying, 'I hope...' or 'It is to be hoped that...'. Strunk believes that using 'hopefully' in its distorted sense detracts from the precision and clarity expected in good writing.

1. What is the primary focus of Chapter 5 in 'Elements of Style'?

Chapter 5, titled 'An Approach to Style (With a List of Reminders),' shifts the focus of the book from the technical aspects of grammar to a broader understanding of style in writing. It emphasizes that style is not just about adhering to grammatical rules but is an expression of the writer's self and spirit. The chapter discusses the mysterious nature of style, suggesting that it transcends strict guidelines and encompasses personal voice, emotional resonance, and the unique sound of words when combined.

2. How does the author illustrate the concept of style?

The author illustrates the concept of style using examples of well-known phrases and sentences that have endured through time, such as 'These are the times that try men’s souls.' He encourages readers to rewrite this sentence in various ways to highlight that although the constructions might be grammatically correct, they lack the original's emotional power and resonance. The emphasis is placed on how particular arrangements of words evoke deeper feelings and convey more than mere meaning.

3. What are some specific reminders or rules related to writing style that are presented in this chapter?

Chapter 5 provides several reminders: 1) Place yourself in the background – focus on the writing, allowing the writing itself to reveal the author’s voice; 2) Write naturally – use language that feels authentic to you; 3) Work from a suitable design – ponder the structure before beginning to compose; 4) Use nouns and verbs primarily, minimizing reliance on adjectives and adverbs; 5) Revise and rewrite – understand that writing is an iterative process; 6) Avoid overwriting and overstating – recommend simplicity and clarity; 7) Aim for clear communication – despite the complexity of writing, clarity remains essential.

4. What does the author say about the relationship between style and the writer's identity?

The author asserts that a writer's style is an inevitable revelation of their identity, which encompasses their spirits, habits, and biases. Each writer’s unique combination of words and their arrangements convey their personal truths and experiences. The chapter suggests that as writers develop their style, they inevitably reveal much about themselves, making it a personal journey of self-expression rather than merely a technical application of language rules.

5. What caution does the author provide regarding the use of language and style?

The author cautions against several pitfalls: he advises against the use of overly complex or fancy words in place of simpler, clearer expressions. Additionally, he warns against inserting too much personal opinion, crafting dialogue that lacks clarity, and neglecting the reader's understanding by using jargon or abbreviations without context. Overall, the author emphasizes the importance of clarity, simplicity, and genuine expression in achieving an effective writing style.