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Sailsofoblivion Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

When should commas be used to express contrast?

Hi, I'm a bit confused about when it is appropriate to use commas to express contast. Could anyone explain this to me?

For example, in this instance, is it acceptable to use a comma after "place" when the next line expresses a contrast and again after "futile" where another contrast is also expressed?

For though we look to the stars adrift
We shiver having lost our place,
Not because our dreams are futile,
But because we are afraid to drown.

Thanks in advance! Emotion: smile
Emma
  

Top answer

A comma represents a place where you would naturally pause in speech. Rather than getting caught up in so-called 'rules' that can become quite complicated, my advice to you as a poet is to say your lines aloud and experiment with pausing and not pausing. See what feels best to you.

— Clive

  • A comma represents a place where you would naturally pause in speech.
  • Rather than getting caught up in so-called 'rules' that can become quite complicated, my advice to you as a poet is to say your lines aloud and experiment with pausing and not pausing.
  • See what feels best to you.
  • A poem is a very personal expression.
  • Clive
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1 Answers
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A comma represents a place where you would naturally pause in speech. Rather than getting caught up in so-called 'rules' that can become quite complicated, my advice to you as a poet is to say your lines aloud and experiment with pausing and not pausing. See what feels best to you. A poem is a very personal expression.

Cliv
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