How Not to Write Book Summary

In 'How Not to Write', William Safire offers a witty and insightful critique on the common pitfalls of writing. Through humorous examples and sharp commentary, he guides readers to avoid clichés, ambiguity, and convoluted sentence structures. Safire’s expertise as a linguist and journalist shines through as he emphasizes clarity and precision in communication. This book serves not only as a guide to better writing but also as an engaging commentary on the art of language itself. Will you heed his advice, or will your words fall into the traps he so cleverly unravels?

By William Safire

Published: 2005

""In the art of writing, clarity is not just a virtue; it is the very essence of communication. Beware the pitfalls of pretentious prose, for they distance rather than connect.""

Book Review of How Not to Write

Presents fifty humorous rules on grammar, usage, and style, covering everything from capitalization and split infinitives to run-on sentences, semi-colons, contractions, the double negative, dangling participles, and onomatopoeia.

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"In the art of writing, clarity is not just a virtue; it is the very essence of communication. Beware the pitfalls of pretentious prose, for they distance rather than connect."

How Not to Write

By William Safire