Em dashes are amazing (psychotechnology.substack.com)

Article summary

The article is an ode to the em dash, a punctuation mark that the author loves and uses frequently. The author argues that em dashes are useful for adding clarifications, caveats, and addendums to sentences, and that they make writing feel like assembling Lego bricks. The author also discusses how some people associate em dashes with AI-generated writing, but believes this is a misguided view. The article concludes with the author offering personalized advice on how to use punctuation correctly for a fee.

Main themes

• Em dash usage
• Punctuation in writing
• AI-generated content
• Writing style
• Language evolution

What commenters say

• The use of em dashes is not a reliable indicator of AI-generated writing, as it is a legitimate punctuation mark that has been used by humans for centuries.
• The association of em dashes with AI-generated writing is a result of people focusing on form over substance and failing to critically evaluate the content.
• Some people believe that the overuse of em dashes is a characteristic of AI-generated writing, but others argue that this is not a convincing argument against using them.
• The use of em dashes is a matter of personal style, and writers should not be discouraged from using them due to fears of being accused of using AI-generated content.
• The criticism of em dashes is often based on superficial characteristics rather than the actual quality of the writing.
• The evolution of language and writing styles is a natural process, and the use of em dashes is just one aspect of this evolution.
• The notion that em dashes are a sign of sophistication or intellectual writing is being lost due to their association with AI-generated content.
• Writers should not let criticism or accusations of using AI-generated content dictate their writing style, including their use of em dashes.