We got through all of Genesis and part of Exodus before I…
“We got through all of Genesis and part of Exodus before I left. One of the main things I was taught from this was not to begin a sentence with And. I pointed out that most sentences in the Bible began with And, but I was told that English had changed since the time of King James. In that case, I argued, why make us read the Bible? But it was in vain. Robert Graves was very keen on the symbolism and mysticism in the Bible at that time.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker reflects on a lesson about not starting sentences with “And,” noting biblical style versus modern English, and questioning why the Bible is read despite such quirks.
In simple terms: Avoid beginning sentences with “And” and consider language evolution.
Key Takeaway
Be mindful of stylistic conventions.
Themes
language
tradition
literature
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
observational
didactic
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- public speaking
- teaching
- editing
Key Concepts
syntax
historical linguistics
Questions to Reflect On
- Do stylistic rules hinder or help communication?
- How does awareness of historical language affect reading comprehension?
A Different Perspective
Modern English often permits starting sentences with “And,” reducing the perceived issue.