by Christie Day, Master Facilitator, McLuhan & Davies Communications, Inc.
We’re very curious to learn what you do.
When typing along, do you tap one or two?
Spaces, that is, at the end of each sentence.
It’s a great debate for backyard fences.
In classrooms and companies everywhere
Folks of all sorts seem to fiercely care.
They’re certain they’re right and need you to know
Their line of thinking is the way to go.
Forgive us for prying if we’re asking too much.
These are small points of style and such.
Yet, they stir up a flurry of conflicting views
Most are addicted to the number they use.
Those who say “two” adamantly stress
They were taught in typing class two are best.
The gap is needed to help readers see
The end of a thought between you and me.
Those who say “one” are equally clear
They have the answer and want you to hear.
One space is all you really need
To keep thoughts apart so readers will heed.
It’s true that styles and beliefs evolve
And this is a trivial problem to solve.
I’m old enough to have followed both ways
Tapping out stories through long, busy days.
The typewriter’s keys made it tough to tell
Where the end of a sentence actually fell.
With today’s word programs, it’s no bother
To separate thoughts one from another.
So, don’t shoot the messenger, as they say.
I bring you a remedy to use as you may.
You’ll likely still argue past the setting sun
But editors agree – all you need is one.