My name is Cassandra and I am a comma addict.

I am massively fond of commas. Seriously. I read back through my work and they pop up like little weeds, strewing unnecessary pauses like it’s a comma closing down sale and everything must go, go, go!

I must think it’s dramatic. It is the only possible reason I can think of. Dramtic, pause. Without, the, “…” Barbara Cartland, employed to, such, great, effect.

Heh.

Example from a short story I have been ridiculously obsessed with over the weekend:

I hit him with my embroidery, though it is a poor punishment. He laughs himself, and, grabbing it, crumples the cloth in his hand. He sobers, somewhat, and I shift under his regard, uncomfortable.

WTF is going on there? I do this constantly. Half the time, I don’t know if I’m supposed to use a comma or not. I know this is a failing, and thus I question every single one. See, even in the previous sentence I don’t know if I’m supposed to have one. I put one in instinctively, then removed it, then put it back in again.

Hmm. Do I need all those commas?? This is going to drive me nuts!

Cassandra Dean

Cassandra Dean is an award-winning, best-selling author of historical and fantasy romance. She is a 2018 recipient of the coveted Romance Writers of Australia Ruby Award. Cassandra is proud to call South Australia her home, where she regularly cheers on her AFL football team and creates her next tale.

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