Punctuation -- Intonation and Style of Speaking

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FeelLikeANut@gmail.com - 30 Nov 2006 01:26 GMT

I've read that there are two functions to punctuation: ensuring clear
and unambiguous communication, and to convey intonation and style of
speaking so that the reader "hears" the words the way the writer
intended. I'm trying to better learn the second part. I've linked to a
brief audio file (42 seconds long and roughly 500Kb) and I'd like for
people here to write it out with that second function of punctuation in
mind. There are some very skilled writers here and I'm hoping to learn
by example.

http://s3.quicksharing.com/d/7812364/1164848691/T01_3_2ch_448Kbps_48KHz.mp3

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Peter Tan - 30 Nov 2006 08:05 GMT

>... I'd like for
> people here to write it out with that second function of punctuation in
> mind.

Here's my attempt. I think, though, punctuation can never capture all
the pauses, changes of tempo and so on.

We've lived too long, seen too much. To live on as we have is to leave
behind the joy, the love, and the companionship; because we know it to
be transitory - of the moment - we know it will turn to ash ... Only
those whose lives are brief can imagine that love is eternal. You
should embrace that remarkable illusion ... it may be the greatest gift
your race has ever received.

Cheers,
Peter

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Discussion Groups / English Usage / November 2006

Punctuation -- Intonation and Style of Speaking