Published by: Thrakatak (Karma: 266.31) on 8 June 2007 | Views: 7618
158
How to Speak And Write Correctly by Joseph Devlin
In the preparation of this little work the writer has kept one
end in view, viz.: To make it serviceable for those for whom it is
intended, that is, for those who have neither the time nor the
opportunity, the learning nor the inclination, to peruse elaborate
and abstruse treatises on Rhetoric, Grammar, and Composition. To
them such works are as gold enclosed in chests of steel and locked
beyond power of opening. This book has no pretension about it
whatever,—it is neither a Manual of Rhetoric, expatiating on
the dogmas of style, nor a Grammar full of arbitrary rules and
exceptions. It is merely an effort to help ordinary, everyday
people to express themselves in ordinary, everyday language, in a
proper manner. Some broad rules are laid down, the observance of
which will enable the reader to keep within the pale of propriety
in oral and written language. Many idiomatic words and expressions,
peculiar to the language, have been given, besides which a number
of the common mistakes and pitfalls have been placed before the
reader so that he may know and avoid them.
The writer has to acknowledge his indebtedness to no one in
particular, but to all in
general who have ever
written on the subject.
The little book goes forth—a finger-post on the road of
language pointing in the right direction. It is hoped that they who
go according to its index will arrive at the goal of correct
speaking and writing.
