Lynne Truss's book, "Eats, Shoots & Leaves," humorously addresses the pitfalls of improper punctuation, particularly focusing on the semicolon. She argues that while the semicolon can be a useful tool for writers, it can also become an addictive crutch. Truss suggests that excessive reliance on semicolons can lead to awkward writing that embarrasses not just the writer but also their loved ones.

Truss’s warning highlights the importance of using punctuation judiciously. The semicolon, often misunderstood, can complicate sentences if overused, leading to confusion or ineffective communication. By advocating for a balanced approach to punctuation, Truss encourages writers to avoid falling into the habit of overusing semicolons, to maintain clarity and effectiveness in their writing.