David Crystal

This is the subtitle of David Crystal’s new book, Making a Point. What is it about punctuation that causes such controversy? Why do people get so worked up about apostrophes and commas? In this illustrated talk, based on the book, David explores the origins of punctuation, describes how the present-day system developed over the centuries, identifies the people responsible for our modern uncertainties and confusions, answers some of the everyday questions asked about correct usage and makes some educated guesses about the future.

Will the apostrophe survive? Will new punctuation marks evolve? Will there be any punctuation at all in a future electronic world? And, in the meantime, what can we do to develop our own confidence in the use of punctuation, and ensure that children gain a solid grasp of the way it is used?