2/18/08 Response

I remember when my fourth grade teacher was lecturing the class on apostrophes. She was so excited that my named end in “s” because she could use me as an example. Mrs. Lein made up some sentence about my pet that I can’t remember. The important part was that the class was taught to always add an apostrophe and an “s” to every name. As Casagrande mentions, it should be an easy rule.

Fast forward to college during ENG 104. I was writing a paper and came across a name that ended in “s.” Well this person was showing possession over so I added the extra apostrophe “s” like any obedient student should. Once the professor is through grading he returns all the papers. Guess what is marked wrong – you guessed it, the apostrophe “s.”

At that point, I’m completely confused. A foundational rule of English grammar has been tossed out the window. Sadly, I still don’t know when I should use an apostrophe and an extra “s.” I’m always afraid I’ll get marked off; however, according to Casagrande Mrs. Lein was right while the evil professor was wrong.

Since being in college I’ve simply dropped the extra “s.” Apparently this is okay as the text states, “For those uncomfortable with the rules, exceptions, and options outlined above may prefer the system, formerly more common, of simply omitting the possessive ‘s’ on all words ending in ‘s’ – hence ‘Dylan Thomas’ poetry,’ ‘Maria Callas’ singing,’ and ‘that business’ main concern.’”

Logically then, you have to ask yourself why a rule is in place.