Take a look at Humorous Reminders of Common Writing Mistakes. Note that they are introduced with the line "Here are a few things to keep in mind when you write an essay." I think some of these are appropriate in fiction, where you are often trying to create a mood of some sort or a particular type of voice for characters who may very well break all kinds of rules in their speech.
I don't know what a barbarism is (23). As far as 16, "Don't use contractions," is concerned, I think that's only true if you're a Klingon.
Found at Nathan Bransford's blog.
Of if you are Grover.
ReplyDeleteOr Data from Star Trek, or Teal'c from Stargate SG1. Geek enough for you yet.
ReplyDeleteWe all know about you and the geek thing, Civilguy.
ReplyDeleteOur collective point is that humans use contractions.