Quote: Griff @ August 5 2009, 2:38 PM BSTHi Loopey I agree, the kind of course you are talking about would probably be good. It's the "go and learn Ancient Greek" approach which I think might not be helpful.
Ah yes, I see. Agreed. 
So how do I learn to write? Page 8
Quote: sootyj @ August 4 2009, 12:13 PM BSTSo how do I improve on it? What would be a good course of study? I found that beginners English courses weren't that helpful and comedy writing courses didn't help with this problem.
I'd like to do some sort of course in professional writing or journalism part time over a couple of years or possibly screen writing. What do you my fellow writers recommend?
Part of my degree in journalism/communications involved a one-year course segment called 'Professional Practice', in which an old woman drummed into us the rules of grammar and style (nothing carved in stone for style). Having studied Latin for seven years previously just made me smug. If there's anything like a 'journalism professional practice' course on offer at tertiary education institutions in the UK, it may be helpful.
Your occasionally careless spelling and grammar doesn't detract from the humour of your posts.
Quote: Lee Henman @ August 5 2009, 1:34 PM BSTPaul's son works for the Beeb.
Quote: Tim Walker @ August 5 2009, 2:12 PM BSTWell there's a f**king surprise.
Let's get it right - Paul's son is employed by the Beeb.
What does he do at the beeb?
I hate people calling it The Beeb.
Quote: zooo @ August 5 2009, 4:02 PM BSTI hate people calling it The Beeb.
"Auntie Beeb" *shudder* Like there's some affection attached to it.
The Corporation.
About sums it up nowadays.
BSkyBnet Corp.
To give it a cheesy 80s apocalyptic feel.
Auntie Crystal-Tits.
how did a thread about learning to write get quite so bitter?
... and relax
Sooty - this is the only book you'll ever need: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Elements-Style-William-Strunk-Jr/dp/020530902X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1249485200&sr=8-1
Quote: jdubya @ August 5 2009, 4:12 PM BSThow did a thread about learning to write get quite so bitter?
All roads lead to Rome...
(Apart for the A2367... which just skirts Stoneybridge!)
This isn't bitter. This isn't close to being bitter.
Chip, you sweat bitter.
This is the place to get bitter.
Rail ALe!
Haven't you recently had a carnival in Sheringham or something?