Always Important

The rules of punctuation remain important even through changing times due to their abilities of preserving order and ensuring correct interpretation of text.

Punctuation can be extremely powerful, delivering an author’s message clearly and effectively, and adding style to literature. As Lewis Thomas says, each “mark seem(s) to carry (its) own subtle meaning.” A period is a forceful stop; a dash is a momentary diversion in subject (Source D). These marks all serve a particular purpose in writing—to create order. Without these “vital tools,” writing would be incomprehensible and “(appear) to the reader as a wild torrent” (Source E). Confusion is bound to ensue without the structure and rules of punctuation (Source B). Punctuation can change an author’s message drastically as well. The lack of just one Oxford comma can change JFK and Stalin from esteemed world leaders into exotic dancers. Likewise, the substitution of a colon for a comma could anger many feminists (Source F). As Hitchings says, “Rules for grammar and punctuation are vital for clear, effective and consistent communication” (Source A). In order to convey the intended message, one must be careful when using punctuation and follow the rules prescribed.