one space vs. two spaces
I have always enjoyed writing. I enjoy the process and structure of a finely crafted story. Dialogue in writing is what I love the most about writing. A talented author writing a multifaceted, multi-person conversation in a novel is truly a work of art. The ability of the author to bounce from personalities and speech patterns of the characters involved in the dialogue is what I consider a litmus test for an author’s ability to totally immerse the reader in their story. And while I’ve read quite a few books and short stories over the years, I’ve missed an update of the rules of writing. I’m not sure how, but I’ve been totally blind to the issue and have only recently been made aware of the change. When writing, should you use one or two spaces after a period or similar punctuation.
I had no idea that this was a thing. Obviously, I’ve used dual space style throughout this post. It is a difficult habit to break. My fingers are on autopilot most of the time while typing, and I don’t really see the need to change at this point. I am nonetheless intrigued by the concept and the fact that it has slipped past me for so long. Apparently, APA and MLA have adjusted their style rules to incorporate the change as late as 2019. Microsoft has added the rule into Word’s grammar checking utility as of 2020. Doing some research, I have found articles on the subject of spacing dating back to 2011. In all this time, I cannot recall a single instance where I’ve heard of this style change, nor even noticed its incorporation in what I consume. I imagine that I’ve been hoodwinked over the years by some elaborate and conspiratorial shell game where the bright red ball is shown to me repeatedly, but I am so focused on the game itself that I don’t notice the ball changing size.
I asked the kids, “How many spaces do you type after a period?” They responded with a quizzical look followed by a long pause and suspicious stare. My guess is that they thought I was trying to trick them or was posing a sort of brain teaser. In almost perfect unison, the answered with, “one.” I was shocked. I still am. My children have been taught to use just a single space at the end of a sentence, and I was none the wiser.
I’ve relayed this realization to some friends of mine who are of a similar age, and they are equally shocked. Only one had heard of the single space change but admitted to not conforming to the new standard. The reaction from the group was similar to my own. One of them, in hilarious defiance, announced that he would not follow the new rule but would instead begin using FOUR spaces at the end of a sentence in protest. And that right there is why I am so grateful for the friends I have.
JK