Censure Quote by Richard Whately
“The censure of frequent and long parentheses has led writers into the preposterous expedient of leaving out the marks by which they are indicated. It is no cure to a lame man to take away his crutches.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise on English Grammar, 1828
Removing punctuation is like disabling a disabled person's aid; it hinders clarity.
In simple terms: Taking away punctuation harms communication.
Key Takeaway
Preserve punctuation for clear expression.
Themes
language
clarity
accessibility
disability awareness
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
educational
lingistic
When to use this quote
- writing
- editing
- teaching
- public signage
Key Concepts
grammar
communication
inclusion
Questions to Reflect On
- How does punctuation aid understanding?
- When might minimal punctuation be effective?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on punctuation can stifle creative expression.
![“Brackets come in various shapes, types and names: 1 round brackets (which we call brackets, and the Americans call parentheses) 2 square brackets [which we call square brackets, and the Americans call brackets]” quote by Lynne Truss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b33/lynne-truss-4153_brackets_brackets-come-in-various-shapes-types-an_222507.jpg)
![“[M]an is not permitted without censure to follow his own thoughts in the search of truth, when they lead him ever so little out of the common road.” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9bd/john-locke-814_censorship_m-an-is-not-permitted-without-censure-to_60175.jpg)
