Even if it weren't so awkward to read. It would be pretty obvious. That the fragmented nature of these "sentences" is a problem. Worse, they're the hallmark of an amateur writer.

By the third grade, most of us know better than to write scraps and bits instead of complete sentences that include a subject and a verb. We know that a sentence must present a complete thought, and when you leave out the verb, you're left with a sentence fragment. Or a C instead of an A on the midterm. (Oops, there's one now.) As writers, we have certain rules to follow. We also have the creative license to mess around with them a little, and seasoned writers know that using sentence fragments in creative writing doesn't necessarily warrant a visit from the grammar police.

Some examples:

Sentence fragments are often successfully used in poetry, such as this haiku by BashÇ.

an old pond-
the sound of a frog
jumping into water

Advertising agencies and copywriters also make frequent use of sentence fragments to add "punch" to their copy. It lends a conversational tone and makes the message more personal, less formal.

• Cockroaches in the pantry? Try Roach-Away!
  
• Silk sheets in all the brightest colors. Soft pastels in every hue.
  
• Sheets-N-Stuff has everything you need for spring!

How about political slogans?

• Bob Dole. A better man for a better America!

Creative writers often use sentence fragments in dialogue, as this more accurately depicts the patterns of our natural speech.

"Is that you, Mr. Jones? Why don't you pull up a chair and join me?"

"No can do. Too much work to do. Terrible, really."

"I see you're using sentence fragments. Aren't you afraid of retribution?"

"Hardly! Retribution from whom? My high school English teacher?"

To emphasize a point:

"Ridiculous! Utterly ridiculous!"

Or as an afterthought:

"I've searched everywhere," she said, defeated. "Except, perhaps, the drugstore on Main Street..."

The conclusion? It is perfectly okay to use sentence fragments in creative writing, as long as you, the author, recognize them for what they are and what they're used for. Be careful, however, and use them sparingly-otherwise, your writing may sound choppy or, worse, you could face a visit from your high school English teacher.




Copyright © 2007 Ronnie L. Smith


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