Which Quotation Correctly Uses Ellipsis To Shorten Lincoln's Words

Which Quotation Correctly Uses Ellipsis to Shorten Lincoln's Words? A Deep Dive into Accurate Citation

The use of ellipsis (...) to shorten quotations is a common practice, allowing writers to extract the most pertinent parts of a longer text while maintaining the original meaning. However, misusing ellipses can distort the original intent and even create a misleading impression. This article will delve into the correct and incorrect usage of ellipsis, particularly when dealing with the impactful words of Abraham Lincoln, focusing on how to accurately and ethically shorten his famous speeches and writings. We will examine several examples, analyzing which correctly preserves the original context and meaning, and which ones fail to do so. Understanding this is crucial for accurate scholarship, responsible reporting, and maintaining the integrity of historical texts.

Understanding the Role of Ellipsis

Ellipsis points (...) represent omitted words, phrases, or sentences within a quotation. They are essential tools for concise writing, allowing you to focus on the most relevant aspects of a longer text. However, their proper usage is critical. An improperly used ellipsis can:

• Distort the meaning: Removing crucial context can change the entire sentiment or argument.
• Create a false impression: Omitting words might suggest an opinion or perspective not originally present.
• Undermine credibility: Incorrect use demonstrates a lack of attention to detail and scholarly rigor.

To use ellipses correctly, follow these guidelines:

• Preserve the original meaning: Only omit words that are unnecessary for understanding the main point. Never omit words that alter the meaning.
• Maintain grammatical correctness: The remaining text should be grammatically sound and coherent.
• Use brackets [ ] to indicate any alterations: If you need to change capitalization or punctuation to maintain grammatical correctness within the shortened quote, use brackets to indicate these modifications.
• Avoid excessive ellipsis: If a large portion of the quote is omitted, consider whether it's better to use a complete quotation or paraphrase. Overusing ellipses makes the quote appear choppy and difficult to understand.

Analyzing Lincoln Quotations: Correct and Incorrect Uses of Ellipsis

Let's examine several examples of Lincoln quotations, some correctly using ellipses and others incorrectly:

Example 1: The Gettysburg Address

Original: "Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this. But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate -- we can not consecrate -- we can not hallow -- this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion -- that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

Incorrect Usage: "Four score and seven years ago…all men are created equal…We are met on a great battle-field…It is for us the living…that this nation…shall not perish from the earth."

This example demonstrates excessive ellipsis. While it technically uses ellipses correctly, the heavy omission fundamentally alters the context and impact of Lincoln's message. The flow of thought and the carefully structured argument are lost.

Correct Usage (Option 1): "Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war…It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work…that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

This option omits sections while retaining the essential structure and argument of Lincoln's speech. The remaining text is still coherent and impactful.

Correct Usage (Option 2): "But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate—we can not consecrate—we can not hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. It is for us the living, rather, to be here dedicated to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. …that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

This option focuses on a specific portion of the speech, maintaining the integrity of the selected section. The ellipsis clearly indicates the omission of the preceding paragraphs.

Example 2: Second Inaugural Address

Original: "Fellow countrymen: At this second appearing to take the oath of the presidential office there is less occasion for an extended address than there was at first. Then a statement somewhat in detail of a course to be pursued seemed fitting and proper. Now, at the expiration of four years, during which public declarations have been constantly called forth on every point and phase of the great contest which still absorbs the attention and engrosses the energies of the nation, little that is new could be presented. The progress of our arms, upon which all else chiefly depends, is as well known to you as to myself, and it is, I trust, reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all. With high hope for the future, no prediction in regard to it is ventured."

Incorrect Usage: "Fellow countrymen…little that is new could be presented…With high hope for the future…"

Again, this shows excessive ellipsis. The original meaning and the flow of Lincoln's thought are severely disrupted.

Correct Usage: "Fellow countrymen: At this second appearing to take the oath of the presidential office…little that is new could be presented. The progress of our arms…is as well known to you as to myself, and it is, I trust, reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all. With high hope for the future, no prediction in regard to it is ventured."

This revised version maintains the overall sense of Lincoln's remarks while eliminating less essential parts.

The Ethical Considerations of Shortening Quotations

Beyond grammatical correctness, the ethical implications of shortening quotations must be considered. It is crucial to ensure that:

• The abbreviation does not misrepresent the speaker's views: Always prioritize accuracy and avoid selectively omitting information that might skew the original meaning.
• The context is preserved: Ensure that the remaining text provides sufficient context for the reader to understand the full implication of the quotation.
• Attribution is clear and accurate: Always clearly attribute the quotation to its original source.

Failing to adhere to these ethical considerations can lead to plagiarism, misrepresentation, and damage to your credibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use ellipses to omit the beginning or end of a sentence?

A: Yes, but be sure that doing so does not change the sentence’s meaning. If omitting the beginning or end leaves a grammatically incomplete sentence, consider rewording or choosing a different quotation.

Q: Should I use spaces around ellipsis points?

A: Style guides vary. Some prefer a single space before and after the ellipsis (…), while others prefer no space. Consistency within your work is key.

Q: When should I choose paraphrasing instead of using ellipses?

A: If you need to omit a significant portion of the original text or if the original text is overly complex or lengthy, paraphrasing is generally preferred. Paraphrasing allows you to convey the essential information in a concise and clear manner while avoiding the potential pitfalls of excessive ellipsis.

Conclusion

The proper use of ellipses is a crucial skill for anyone working with quotations, especially when dealing with historically significant texts like Lincoln's speeches. By following the guidelines discussed, you can accurately and ethically shorten quotations while maintaining the original meaning and preserving the integrity of the source material. Remember, the goal is not just to shorten the text but to do so in a way that is both accurate and respectful of the original author's intent. Incorrectly using ellipses can lead to misinterpretations, misrepresentations, and damage to your credibility. Therefore, careful consideration and attention to detail are paramount when shortening quotations, especially those of such influential figures as Abraham Lincoln.