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With educated people, I suppose, punctuation is a matter…

“With educated people, I suppose, punctuation is a matter of rule; with me it is a matter of feeling. But I must say I have a great respect for the semicolin; it's a useful little chap” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“With educated people, I suppose, punctuation is a matter of rule; with me it is a matter of feeling. But I must say I have a great respect for the semicolin; it's a useful little chap”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Punctuation can be either a strict rule or an expressive feeling, but the semicolon remains a valuable tool.

In simple terms: Punctuation is both rule and feeling; semicolon is useful.

Key Takeaway

Balance structure with personal style.

Themes

language writing grammar expression

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • editing essays
  • creative writing workshops
  • academic papers
  • personal journaling

Key Concepts

syntax semantics creative writing

Questions to Reflect On

  • When do you prioritize rule over feeling?
  • How does the semicolon enhance clarity?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on feeling may lead to inconsistency.

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