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A review by omnificer
The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr., E.B. White
4.0
I don't believe I've read such an opinionated rulebook before. Its statements are decisive which can be amusing since some of what it condemns has changed over time, as language does. I don't think the co-authors would change their opinions if shown some of that modern usage, but they aren't ignorant.
They show this understanding, if not approval, with a sharp wit. They declare a rule and then break it immediately to show what sounds best is what is important, as long as your meaning is clear. And even if some of the advice is out of date or even just Strunk's taste (such as using forcible) there is a massive amount of usable information. I haven't absorbed the book in one reading and I don't plan to shackle myself to their rules but I will reference it often and take to heart the need for clarity.
They show this understanding, if not approval, with a sharp wit. They declare a rule and then break it immediately to show what sounds best is what is important, as long as your meaning is clear. And even if some of the advice is out of date or even just Strunk's taste (such as using forcible) there is a massive amount of usable information. I haven't absorbed the book in one reading and I don't plan to shackle myself to their rules but I will reference it often and take to heart the need for clarity.