Pet Peeve #41 Correction
Alas, I am guilty of one of the high crimes of writing – not adequately researching something before writing about it.
We all make mistakes, yes, but I hate ranting about something that’s untrue.
Pet Peeve #41 wasn’t all wrong, mind you, but I stated something that’s wrong. In some circles. That’s the annoying thing about writing: in a lot of the ‘rules’ of writing, you’ll find two sides to it.
I’m talking about the ’s vs s’s issue.
Since I first started writing, I have always hated the look of s’s so I started using s’ instead. A lot of people do it, but does that mean it’s right? Apparently not, according to one of the higher authorities: Strunk and White
According to Strunk and White’s The Elements of Style, “Form the possessive singular of nouns by adding ’s. Follow this rule whatever the final consonant.”
Lovely.
So what was James’ paint is supposed to be James’s paint. Undoubtedly there will be more wisdom from the book of Strunk and White in the future.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:19 pm
It’s worth noting that the Strunk & White reference is Page 1, Sentence 1. I was reading the book last week. I’m a fan.
December 19th, 2007 at 6:59 pm
Very true. It’s funny it’s the first rule and yet it’s one I hate the most. Ha!
December 20th, 2007 at 10:46 pm
I actually like the rule. It’s one I defended against many teachers’ whims. It’s worth noting, however, that s’ is an acceptable possessive when the subject is an ancient historical figure, like Moses’ staff or Jesus’ cross. Not so much with my friend Chris’s piano skills. OK, like Icarus’ wings, I’ve gone too far and am falling flat.
December 21st, 2007 at 6:01 pm
Yes, but to make the distinction for ancient historical figures… Well, why only them? I think s’ is neater and more aesthetically pleasing.
It is funny, though, how we can have these kind of discussions and yet both of our choices are acceptable.
June 25th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
I had an argument with a teacher and dozens of writers over this rule. Sometimes it gets to the point where I go, “I know I’m right, so don’t bother. Check the first example in Elements of Style.”
June 27th, 2009 at 1:22 am
When all else fails, go to The Elements of Style.