Punctuation is essential for clear communication, serving as the framework that organizes and conveys meaning in our writing. It is often misunderstood as merely a set of rules for an elite group, but its purpose extends far beyond that. Without punctuation, the intended message can become confusing, leading to misunderstandings in both written and spoken language.
Lynne Truss, in her book "Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation," argues that we must defend the use of punctuation. It provides structure and clarity, ensuring that the reader interprets the message as intended. The importance of punctuation lies in its role as a reliable tool for communication, rather than an arbitrary set of conventions.