Let’s Revisit Grammar – National Grammar Day

Grammar is something many people learn about in school because they have to and then promptly forget.

Parts of speech. Which words you should never end sentences with. How to use punctuation properly.

But grammar is actually much more exciting than just rules in a book. There are even different types of grammar, including one that looks at how language has changed throughout history. Yes, there is such a thing as historical grammar.

In our business, words are used to say things: persuasive things, moving things, precise things. Sometimes, that means going against the laws of grammar (prepositions can be ended on); sometimes it means preserving them (serial comma or bust).

The important thing is that our marketing efforts are able to be understood without confusion.

So, to be as highbrow as possible—and for no real reason other than the linguistic challenge—here are our sentiments in sonnet form.

Grammar – A Sonnet

Grammar itself, is built of laws and rules

With which grammarians beg you comply.

Boasting of order and structural jewels:

Language’s historic, oft-trusted ally.

Yet, always keep in the back of your mind:

Language remains forever evolving.

Grammar is nothing but a guide, you’ll find,

To word puzzles that ceaseless need solving.

And as such, grammar should always make peace

With those who push language to its limits.

Some rules can be bent without gaining a crease

No matter what the rulebooks prohibit.

This we say with utmost sincerity:

Grammar’s true purpose is message clarity.