Apostrophe Part One

The term apostrophe has two definitions for a writer.

The first is the lesser known literary one. It’s a device where one addresses some person or    abstraction that’s not really there. Here are some examples:

 

From Shakespeare’s King Lear: “Ingratitude! thou marble-hearted fiend!” He’s talking to Ingratitude. Apparently, he’s kind of a jerk.

 

  “Oh, Death, Be Not Proud.” It’s the title of a John Donne poem. He’s telling Death to not be so stuck up.

 

  “Hey, Time, slow down so I can get more done.” I’m talking to Time. I don’t plan on waiting around for an answer.

 

The apostrophe is a great device in writing. Add it to your toolbox when you want to add a little flair to a scene, a story, a poem, or whatever else you’re putting into words. 

 

Next week I’ll discuss the second meaning of apostrophe: that funny little mark.