The Elements of Style
or Strunk and White
by William Strunk Jr. and E. B. White
Most commonly referred to as Strunk and White, The Elements of Style is one of the most widely used and oldest writing style guides of the English language. Writers and editors of every ilk and level have one tucked safely on a shelf nearby. Perhaps perched next to his computer screen.
Originally compiled by William Strunk for his students
The Elements of Style has since been revised and edited several times by his former student E.B. White. Both these gentelmen have since passed away, yet the text is still topical and relevant.
It has a most friendly
Table of Contents
and straightforward Index. The Glossary provides definitions of many writing terms used throughout the book and in other more stringent guides. Strunk based his guide on the premise that you must first know and understand the rules of English composition before you can bend the rules into your own style of writing.
Paper or Electronic?
Bartleby Publishers has posted a searchable version of
Strunk and White
on line, but I still recommend you have your own paper copy. My favourite, as I have already stated, is the illustrated edition of The Elements of Style by Strunk, White, and Kalman. Though I must confess my partiality to this particular edition may be due in part to the lovely self-portrait Maira Kalman has included in the last pages of the book. I like to think this illustration is a good likeness of me and my dog Maggie.
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