Understand the rules before breaking them from "summary" of Steering the Craft by Ursula K. Le Guin
When you're learning to write, the rules of grammar and syntax can feel like constraints, limiting your creativity and stifling your voice. It's tempting to break free from these rules as soon as possible, to rebel against the "shoulds" and "should nots" that have been drilled into you since grade school. But before you can effectively break the rules, you must first understand them.
Grammar and syntax are the tools of your trade, the building blocks of your craft. Just as a carpenter must know how to use a saw and a hammer before they can create a masterpiece, a writer must understand the rules of language before they can effectively bend or break them. Without a solid foundation in grammar and syntax, your writing will lack clarity and coherence, leaving your readers confused and frustrated.
By studying the rules of grammar and syntax, you'll learn how to construct sentences that flow smoothly and convey your meaning clearly. You'll understand the difference between a comma splice and a semicolon, between an active voice and a passive voice. This knowledge will give you the confidence to experiment with language, to play with structure and form in ways that are both innovative and intentional.
Breaking the rules of grammar and syntax can be a powerful tool for artistic expression, allowing you to create a unique voice that stands out from the crowd. But this rebellion must be purposeful, not haphazard. You must know why you are breaking the rules and what effect you hope to achieve by doing so. Otherwise, your writing will come across as sloppy or amateurish, lacking the polish and precision that comes from a deep understanding of your craft.
In the end, mastering the rules of grammar and syntax is not about conforming to a set of arbitrary standards, but about empowering yourself as a writer. When you understand the rules, you have the knowledge and skill to wield them with precision and purpose. You can choose when to follow convention and when to break free, creating a style that is uniquely your own. So before you set out to break the rules, take the time to understand them. Your writing will be all the better for it.
Read More
Continue reading the Microbook on the Oter App. You can also listen to the highlights by choosing micro or macro audio option on the app. Download now to keep learning!
Now you can listen to your microbooks on-the-go. Download the Oter App on your mobile device and continue making progress towards your goals, no matter where you are.
