Watch Your Language!
It is fair to presume that members of a literary website are avid readers and/or professional writers. One would think that an avid reader or professional writer would have developed and mastered advanced language skills over time. Think again!
There are published authors whose notable lack of knowledge and command of basic language skills such as an expansive vocabulary, correct spelling, proper grammar and appropriate syntax boggles the mind of those who wrongfully presume that all published authors are professionals. Just as mind boggling is the fact that many readers are willing to accept poorly written books just as long as they may be procured at very little or no cost.
Evidence of this tendency to accept and even encourage undisciplined and unrefined language protocol may be found among some comments posted within almost any thread of a literary website's discussion group.
A cursory review will reveal occasional examples of a contributor's utilization of improper, crude or inappropriate language to express their disagreement with a statement and their disdain for the person who posted it. Rather than provide a well-written, logical counter argument, they resort to mocking and attempting to humiliate the person with whom they disagree.
Perhaps such people could provide a more mature and proper written response, but choose not to do so. Perhaps they actually have no choice because they do not know any better and, therefore, cannot provide a more mature and proper written response
There are published authors whose notable lack of knowledge and command of basic language skills such as an expansive vocabulary, correct spelling, proper grammar and appropriate syntax boggles the mind of those who wrongfully presume that all published authors are professionals. Just as mind boggling is the fact that many readers are willing to accept poorly written books just as long as they may be procured at very little or no cost.
Evidence of this tendency to accept and even encourage undisciplined and unrefined language protocol may be found among some comments posted within almost any thread of a literary website's discussion group.
A cursory review will reveal occasional examples of a contributor's utilization of improper, crude or inappropriate language to express their disagreement with a statement and their disdain for the person who posted it. Rather than provide a well-written, logical counter argument, they resort to mocking and attempting to humiliate the person with whom they disagree.
Perhaps such people could provide a more mature and proper written response, but choose not to do so. Perhaps they actually have no choice because they do not know any better and, therefore, cannot provide a more mature and proper written response
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Jade
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Jul 11, 2016 03:26AM
I totally agree. From behind the monitor people show their true colours. Often very dark shades.
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A sign of our times - the massive number of books being produced is bound to include many that are inferior in their use of language (among other things). Would be writers, who have not done anything to mature their ability - many are not writers or readers - believe writing is easy. In fact, it really is hard work. The lack of intelligent debate is the result of emotional responders not letting the facts get in the way. Emotional debates are a terrible waste of time.
Great points Jim.
Jade wrote: "I totally agree. From behind the monitor people show their true colours. Often very dark shades."Jade,
I like your utilization of colors as a metaphor to describe inappropriate and improper behavior. I wish I would have thought of that while composing the blog post. I freely admit that some of my best ideas have come from others.
Thank you for taking the time to view the blog and post a comment.
Jim Vuksic
Christine wrote: "A sign of our times - the massive number of books being produced is bound to include many that are inferior in their use of language (among other things). Would be writers, who have not done anythi..."Christine,
I agree with your observation that, all too often, emotional diatribes have replaced intelligent debate in our society.
Thank you for remaining one of the most loyal followers of the blog and contributing your opinions and knowledge.
Jim Vuksic
I'm often suggesting proof reading in my reviews - I find it hard to skim over them. A person's country of origin often upsets the syntax, too.
Michael wrote: "I'm often suggesting proof reading in my reviews - I find it hard to skim over them. A person's country of origin often upsets the syntax, too."Michael,
Your suggestion that all manuscripts be at least proof read prior to submission for publication is unassailable by any logical perspective. Professional editing should also be seriously considered.
Your point is well taken that the writer's country and culture has an impact upon syntax. Appropriate syntax, as mentioned in the blog post, implies deference to what is considered appropriate within the literary standards of the author's country of origin. I should have stated that more clearly. Thank you for pointing it out.
Your many contributions to the blog posts have been and will continue to be very much appreciated.
Jim Vuksic
