Semicolon: The Past, Present, and Future of a Misunderstood Mark

Semicolon

The Past, Present, and Future of a Misunderstood Mark

2019 • 224 pages

Ratings2

Average rating4

15

Semicolon is an informative and lighthearted read arguing in favour of the much-derided ‘semicolon'. Watson's writing is clear and direct; and successfully achieves her aim. For anyone who takes a particular interest in both English grammar/punctuation and the history thereof, I would recommend this novel. It is short and enjoyable: at no point bogged down by minutiae or jargon.

That said, there is nothing particularly remarkable about this book; nor is the topic a must-read by anyone who falls outside of the above niche. Thus, if you are looking at this book—and seem interested—then I think that is all the information you need to know that this book is for you. 

PS: Since I am not American—and would find this noteworthy myself—most of Watson's examples and historical cases come from American usage. As Watson is an American author, I am sure that is because she is most familiar with that writing, but I would've certainly been interested to hear more about the semicolon's usage and history in other English dialects, or even other languages that make use of the semicolon. 

March 10, 2024Report this review