Why Grammar Is Necessary...

Grammar is a system used to achieve clarity in communication and we make sense of that system through learning the rules of the system which are based on logic. In doing so, we discover the meanings in written and spoken words which will, in turn, enable effective communication between individuals and groups.

This system may develop over time or it may be created but it is one that is acknowledged and accepted by those using that particular language. So, as in any other language, evolved or created, English too has its system of grammatical rules, conventions of usage and mechanics to facilitate communication.

Now,  we are going to see how simple grammatical rules, mechanics and English Language usage were ignored when e.e. cummings wrote his poem, anyone lived in a pretty how town. Let's consider the first stanza of the poem.

How does Cummings' lack of proper use of grammatical rules actually require you to use grammatical rules to understand his poem?

Consider carefully how Cummings' unusual, or lack of the, use of grammatical rules and neglect of the common usage and mechanics of the language provide us with clues that will help us to make sense of the poem.

Consider also that in order to get at the clues, we need to have a knowledge of the grammar, mechanics and usage as is commonly followed in the English Language.

Try to work out the solutions on your own before you check the possible answers when you go into `Making Sense through Knowing Grammar' in the next post which will be uploaded in a week's time, by February 14th 2025. Remember, analysis is subjective and there could be other multiple responses in generating an understanding of the poem though the same rules are being use to arrive at the answers.