In "Eats, Shoots & Leaves," Lynne Truss argues that the emoticon represents a significant development in punctuation, comparable to the introduction of the question mark during Charlemagne's time. She suggests that the emoticon emerged out of a need for clearer communication, expressing emotions that conventional punctuation could not adequately convey. Some may see this as a positive evolution in language, while others could view it as a sign of desperation in our ability to communicate effectively.

Truss's commentary emphasizes the importance of punctuation in written communication. By comparing emoticons to historical punctuation marks, she highlights how language continues to evolve to meet the needs of its users. This complexity in communication reflects society's struggle to articulate feelings and messages clearly in a digital age, suggesting that while we gain new tools for expression, we also face challenges in maintaining clarity and meaning.