I don’t believe in grammar. It’s not that I don’t use it. It’s just that I don’t believe it’s what makes someone a great writer. When a new writer sits down at his computer to compose a story, the one thing that is probably going to be a stumbling block to him is grammar. How can you write when you’re wondering how to use periods, dashes, and exclamation points? When it comes to good writing, grammar is secondary to things like plot, setting, and dialog. You don’t need it to initially tell your story.

 Writing is extremely content-based. When I read, I’m not reading for the grammar; it doesn’t tell me anything! I’m reading for the content. It’s what tells the story. I believe there is a certain osmosis to learning how to write well. If you chose to pursue writing as a profession or even just for enjoyment, and you practice on a regular basis, eventually everything else will fall into place.

 Please don’t misunderstand me. I’m not saying that I don’t like grammar. I’m saying that in order to be a good writer, you shouldn’t make grammar your focus. I’ve been blogging since 2005 and I’ve always had my sister, mom or dad edit my writing. As I’ve progressed, I’ve seen my grammar skills increase to the point of my mother only needing a minute or so to edit a three hundred word blog. I definitely think that grammar can be learned by osmosis.

Osmosis

The gradual, often unconscious, absorption of knowledge or ideas through continual exposure rather than deliberate learning. She seemed to have picked up a working knowledge of grammar by osmosis.

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