Grammar
for
Effective
Communication
and
Expression
Grammar is a system and we make sense using a known system to discover the meanings in written and spoken words. This system may develop over time or it may be created but it is one that is acknowledged by those using that particular language.
So, as in any other language, evolved or created, English too has its system of grammatical rules, conventions of usage and mechanics.
Now, we are going to see how simple grammatical rules, mechanics and English Language usage were ignored when e.e. cummings wrote his poem, anyone lived in a pretty how town. Let's consider the first stanza of the poem.
anyone lived in a pretty how town
Stanza 1
​How would Cummings' unusual use of grammatical rules and neglect of the common usage and mechanics of the language provide us with clues that will help us to make sense of the poem?
To get at the clues, we need to have a knowledge of the grammar, mechanics and usage as is commonly followed in the English Language.
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One possible interpretation, with the help of grammatical rules:
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In not using capitalisation for `anyone' but with reference to a `he', one can assume the `anyone' is a character, representing the average population, and this character is someone who doesn't have a high social standing. This `he' is not one to stand out in society; he is one with the masses that is faceless; he is not someone that society takes notice of. The `pretty how' also tells one that the town is not worthy of more than a general description of `pretty'.
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Bells can be a reference to the passing of time as in the past, church bells were often used at specific times in the day to call people to prayer. So `he' continued his existence with a significant other (`his') through the passing of time and seasons (represented in the next verse by the spring summer autumn winter). The absence of commas and periods or full-stops signify a continuous passing of time and seasons without a pause. As time goes from one period to another, `his', the significant other (`one who belongs to the `he') did not join in when `he sang' but did when `he danced'. This may indicate that `his' felt no joy within to sing about but `he' was able to get this person to share in the happiness `he 'felt when `he' got `his' to join in the dance.
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Try to work out, on your own, the solutions to the other stanzas in the poem found in `Is Grammar Really Necessary'. Remember, language is subjective and there could be other possible responses.
For a more grounded knowledge and understanding of grammar so as to achieve clarity in your writing and to comprehend others' writings, do contact us for lessons to enhance your English language skills.
