Dreyer's English

What's Dreyer's English about?

• Focus on Clarity and Style: Dreyer's English is a guide to writing with clarity and style, emphasizing the importance of precise language. Benjamin Dreyer, a seasoned copy editor, shares insights from his extensive experience in the publishing industry.
• Practical Advice: The book offers practical tips and rules for grammar, punctuation, and style, making it accessible for writers at all levels. Dreyer aims to help readers improve their writing without overwhelming them with jargon.
• Engaging Narrative: Beyond just rules, Dreyer includes anecdotes and humor, making the reading experience enjoyable. His conversational tone invites readers to engage with the material more personally.

Why should I read Dreyer's English?

• Improve Writing Skills: This book is ideal for anyone looking to enhance their writing skills, whether for professional or personal purposes. Dreyer provides actionable advice that can lead to immediate improvements in clarity and style.
• Learn from an Expert: As a copy editor for Random House, Dreyer has worked with numerous authors and has a wealth of knowledge to share. His insights are grounded in real-world experience, making them credible and relevant.
• Fun and Informative: The book is not only educational but also entertaining, filled with witty observations and engaging stories. This combination makes it a pleasure to read while learning valuable lessons.

What are the key takeaways of Dreyer's English?

• Clarity is Key: One of the main messages is that clarity should be the primary goal of writing. Dreyer emphasizes that "a good sentence...is one that the reader can follow from beginning to end."
• Punctuation Matters: Dreyer discusses the importance of punctuation in conveying meaning and rhythm in writing. He states, "If words are the flesh, muscle, and bone of prose, punctuation is the breath."
• Rules and Nonrules: The book distinguishes between essential rules of grammar and style and those that are more flexible. Dreyer encourages writers to understand the rules but also to know when to break them for effect.

What are some common grammar mistakes discussed in Dreyer's English?

• Misuse of "Who" and "Whom": Dreyer clarifies the difference between "who" (subject) and "whom" (object), advising readers to think of "who" as the cousin of "I" and "he."
• Dangling Modifiers: The book highlights the issue of dangling modifiers, which can confuse readers. Dreyer explains that "a sentence’s introductory bit and its main bit need to fuse correctly."
• Parallelism: Dreyer stresses the importance of parallel structure in writing, particularly in constructions like "not only x but y."

What punctuation rules does Dreyer's English emphasize?

• Series Comma: Dreyer advocates for the use of the series comma (also known as the Oxford comma) to avoid ambiguity. He states, "Only godless savages eschew the series comma."
• Avoiding Comma Splices: The book advises against using commas to join two independent clauses without a conjunction. Dreyer explains that "a comma splice is the use of a comma to join two sentences when each can stand on its own."
• Proper Use of Dashes: Dreyer discusses the correct use of em dashes and en dashes, explaining their distinct purposes in writing.

What stylistic tips does Dreyer's English offer?

• Be Concise: Dreyer encourages writers to eliminate unnecessary words and phrases to enhance clarity. He suggests avoiding "very," "really," and similar qualifiers.
• Use Active Voice: The book promotes the use of active voice over passive voice for stronger writing. Dreyer explains that "a sentence written in the passive voice is one whose subject would, in a sentence constructed in the active voice, be its object."
• Read Aloud: Dreyer recommends reading writing aloud to catch awkward phrasing and improve flow.

What are some common spelling errors mentioned in Dreyer's English?

• Confusing "Accessible" and "Accommodate": Dreyer points out that words with double letters can be tricky, such as "accommodate" and "acknowledgment."
• "Aficionados" Spelling: The book emphasizes the correct spelling of "aficionados," which is often misspelled.
• "Ad Nauseam": Dreyer clarifies that this phrase is often incorrectly spelled as "ad nauseum."

What are the best quotes from Dreyer's English and what do they mean?

• "A good sentence...is one that the reader can follow from beginning to end.": This quote encapsulates Dreyer's emphasis on clarity in writing. It serves as a reminder that the primary goal of writing is effective communication.
• "Only godless savages eschew the series comma.": This humorous quote highlights Dreyer's strong advocacy for the series comma. It underscores the importance of clarity and precision in writing.
• "If words are the flesh, muscle, and bone of prose, punctuation is the breath.": This metaphor illustrates the vital role punctuation plays in writing.

How does Dreyer's English address the evolution of language?

• Language is Fluid: Dreyer acknowledges that language evolves over time and that writers should be aware of contemporary usage.
• Embrace Change: The book encourages writers to adapt to changes in language and usage while maintaining clarity.
• Respect Tradition: While advocating for modern usage, Dreyer also respects traditional grammar and style rules.

What unique insights does Dreyer's English offer about copyediting?

• Copyediting as a Craft: Dreyer describes copyediting as a nuanced craft that goes beyond mere correction.
• Listening to the Author: He emphasizes the importance of understanding the author's voice and intentions.
• Attention to Detail: The book highlights the meticulous nature of copyediting, where small details can significantly impact the final product.

What specific methods does Dreyer's English recommend for improving writing?

• Look Up Unfamiliar Words: Dreyer advises writers to look up words they are unsure about, rather than guessing.
• Read Aloud: He suggests reading your writing aloud to catch errors and awkward phrasing.
• Embrace Revision: Dreyer emphasizes the importance of revising and editing one's work.

How can I apply the lessons from Dreyer's English to my writing?

• Practice Regularly: Apply the lessons by practicing writing regularly and consciously implementing the tips provided in the book.
• Seek Feedback: Share your writing with others and seek constructive feedback.
• Revise and Edit: Make revision and editing a regular part of your writing process.