How Important is Proper Grammar?

Last week, Eric Deckers — a great writer I respect, who (or is it “whom?”) has written for news­pa­pers for over 20 years — said he never learned when to use “who” or “whom,” and didn’t care. Another writer/editor friend, whose work I thor­oughly enjoy, was uncertain on when to use “that” vs. “which”. When is it a restric­tive clause anyway? My point being — even highly trained and expe­ri­enced writers don’t know it all. Although one should know the rules before breaking them, we shouldn’t let grammar and tradition get in the way of writing — espe­cially in a blog.

Don’t get me wrong, good grammar counts and should be followed and used, but not uncon­di­tion­ally. For example, on this blog, we loosely follow AP style, as long as it doesn’t con­tra­dict the feel or the voice of the post. For example, while it’s con­sid­ered correct to spell out numbers one through nine, we sometimes break this rule for emphasis in post titles, subheads, and sometimes, standard copy (ex: “7 Keys to Success”). We nearly always use the oxford comma. We occa­sion­ally split an infini­tive, begin a sentence with a con­junc­tion, or use a passive voice when it works for our intent. Although we’re often guided by Strunk & White’s Elements of Style, it doesn’t mean we always adhere to those guide­lines. Like any art or phi­los­o­phy, there are extremes on both sides. There are those who follow no rules, those who follow every rule, and every­thing in-between. Whatever the case, our writing should be con­sis­tent, mindful, and properly com­mu­ni­cated to our audiences.

Hemingway suggested, “write drunk; edit sober.” It’s important to allow creative freedom when writing, and just as important to reign it in when editing. What may get in the way is over zealously following or breaking the rules. Know the rules well, then write what’s right for you.