Why They Matter

By Annette Rey

Some of my posts detail grammar and word choice errors that jump out at me from television newscasts, television documentaries, newspaper articles, radio programs, signage, and other sources. Here are some thoughts on the subject.

I reflect and ask myself, “Do others understand why I stress writers should try to be error-free in their work?”

The following points should shed light on the subject.

1. I hope the Embarrassing Errors posts help my readers to be less accepting of what they see and hear, and to be more analytical. This attitude will help them question the language used and lead them to research a better expression.

2. I have stood on the belief that writers, simply because they practice the art of writing, should do everything they can to present a perfect piece of work.

3. If you love writing, you owe it something in return.

4. Words are to be respected. They are our method of communicating love and passion, our experiences, and future dreams, and fears.

5. Words are what make us human.

6. Our written work is a window into our creative minds.

7. I want my work, and your work, to say what is intentioned, and to not be misleading by choosing the wrong verbiage that loses our readers.

8. Education in our field needs to continue everyday for the rest of our lives.

9. Learning and writing should be enjoyable, so there should be no objection to checking your work thoroughly.

Those are the reasons errors committed by people who should know better bother me so much. I feel they are disrespecting the language and the art of writing. They are proving themselves to be lazy and are not double-checking their work before putting it in public view.

I make mistakes, too, but it’s not for want of effort to avoid them. And I appreciate it when someone points out any mistakes I make, so my writing will continue to improve.

I have stressed the following as the main reason to be utterly accurate in your writing. Agnes Repplier, an American essayist (1855?-1950), said it best, “Every misused word revenges itself forever upon a writer’s reputation.”

Wow! You should keep that consequence in mind as your motive for creating your best work possible.

Be happy as you research and write and edit and rewrite. That’s all part of giving your internal gifts to the world.