Money Quote by Daniel Keyes
““April 6—Today, I learned, the comma, this is, a, comma (,) a period, with, a tail, Miss Kinnian, says its, importent, because, it makes writing, better, she said, somebody, could lose, a lot, of money, if a comma, isnt in, the right, place, I got, some money, that I, saved from, my job, and what, the foundation, pays me, but not, much and, I dont see how, a comma, keeps, you from, losing it, But, she says, everybody, uses commas, so Ill, use them, too,,,, April 7—I used the comma wrong. Its punctuation…Miss Kinnian says a period is punctuation too, and there are lots of other marks to learn. She said; You, got. to-mix?them!up: She showd? me” how, to mix! them; up, and now! I can. mix (up all? kinds of punctuation— in, my. writing! There” are lots, of rules; to learn? but. Im’ get’ting them in my head: One thing? I, like: about, Dear Miss Kinnian: (thats, the way? it goes; in a business letter (if I ever go! into business?) is that, she: always; gives me’ a reason” when—I ask. She”s a gen’ius! I wish? I could be smart-like-her; Punctuation, is? fun!””
About This Quote
The passage humorously illustrates a learner’s struggle with punctuation, emphasizing how proper commas and periods affect clarity and professionalism in writing.
In simple terms: Punctuation mastery improves communication.
Key Takeaway
Attention to detail prevents costly misunderstandings.
Themes
language learning
communication
humor
education
writing mechanics
Mood
playful
reflective
determined
Type
quote
personal anecdote
instructional
When to use this quote
- student writing assignments
- business correspondence
- editing drafts
- self‑editing practice
Key Concepts
comma usage
period importance
writing clarity
learning process
Practical Applications
- improve document professionalism
- avoid misinterpretation in contracts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does punctuation influence perceived credibility?
- What strategies help internalize grammar rules?
