1. Chaos Inc.

    Chaos Inc. Active Member

    Joined:
    May 27, 2014
    Messages:
    180
    Likes Received:
    47
    Location:
    Acolasia

    Grammar Quick grammar question

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by Chaos Inc., Jul 15, 2014.

    Cleaning up somethings that have been bugging me. This is a double thingie with commas. It sounds fine, but do I need the comma between boy and Dryden?

    "From under the fur cloak, a boy, Dryden, crouched in wait."
     
  2. minstrel

    minstrel Leader of the Insquirrelgency Supporter Contributor

    Joined:
    Jul 11, 2010
    Messages:
    10,742
    Likes Received:
    9,991
    Location:
    Near Sedro Woolley, Washington
    I think it should be there. I'm not sure there's an absolute rule about it, but it looks (and sounds) right to me with the comma.

    Without the comma, it seems to mean there's a race of beings called Drydens, and this particular one is a boy.
     
    daemon likes this.
  3. daemon

    daemon Contributor Contributor

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Messages:
    1,357
    Likes Received:
    978
    What @minstrel recommends is an absolute rule. When an identifier is surrounded by commas, that denotes an appositive. You have an appositive.

    In this sentence:

    "A boy Dryden, crouched in wait."

    the comma serves no purpose. Likewise, it would serve no purpose with the prepositional phrase prepended to the sentence.
     
  4. Chaos Inc.

    Chaos Inc. Active Member

    Joined:
    May 27, 2014
    Messages:
    180
    Likes Received:
    47
    Location:
    Acolasia
    So I leave it as is then?
     

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice