It got me thinking about what my favorite punctuation mark was. Well, no. I already knew what it was. You know you're a writer when you have a favorite punctuation mark in the first place, but I digress. Really, this National Punctuation Day felt like the perfect excuse to pimp my beloved semicolon.
Because, let's face it, folks, the semicolon is awesome.
I know, I know, you're wondering what's so special about the semicolon? Who even uses semicolons anymore? To the first question, I counter with another question: what isn't special about the semicolon? Semicolons can do the work of a comma or a period; they're very versatile! See? And can you connect two independent clauses by just existing? I DIDN'T THINK SO.
As to the second question, I DO. And so should you! Because this is not just a post to celebrate the natural marvel that is the semicolon, but also to raise awareness about its endangered state. Yes, dear readers, I am afraid that the semicolon population is in a state of alarmingly rapid decline! But YOU can do something to stop this tragedy before it's too late.
Use the semicolon; it's what you were meant to do.
In closing, I'd like to leave you with a poem I composed to express my gratitude to that brave, thankless punctuation mark:
Ode to the Semicolon
O, semicolon!
You who eat independent
Clauses for breakfast!
We salute you, friend!
Your punctuation powers
Without which, we'd fail!
O, semicolon!
Never think we do not love
You, our favorite.
You know my favorite punctuation mark, but now I wonder: what's yours, dear readers? Are you infatuated with the comely comma? Or maybe you get a thrill out of using an exclamation mark! Do share.
* Interesting side note: apparently ninjas wanted a slice of the holiday pie, too, as they now have their own day. Day of the Ninja is December 5th. Mark your calendars, otherwise it may sneak up on you. *rimshot*
