Not optional: the serial comma

If you’re not sure what the serial comma is, check Grammar Girl’s post about it. I agree with most of the points she makes, but feel strongly that it shouldn’t be optional. Sounds like the only reason people started omitting it was to save space in newspapers. Understandable in that situation, I suppose, but otherwise I think it’s a necessity because a) it removes confusion from sentences like “My favorite sandwiches are hummus, turkey and avocado and ham and cheese.” and b) it prevents ridiculous sentences like “My favorite sandwiches are cheese, ham and ham and cheese.” (Not sure why all my sentences are about sandwiches.)

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Fareed Zakaria and the power of a greeting

[Originally published on B2B Brand Debate]

“Welcome, to our viewers in the United States and around the world.” Every week, Fareed Zakaria, acclaimed author and columnist, begins his broadcast with these words. The show is Fareed Zakaria GPS, a weekly international affairs program on CNN, and the topic is public affairs with a focus on international issues (“GPS” stands for “Global Public Square”).

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