What others are saying...

One of our classmates says how it is not fun to write with rigid, structural rules. I agree with this to a certain extent. To what extent that is, I'm not entirely sure but I do know that we need the rules. The rules should be second nature. That's why we're studying them, isn't it? Once they become second nature our style will, in turn, flow. If we didn't have these rules, there would be nothing to classify good writing. Revising is one of my favorite parts of writing. The fun part, if you will. When I write something, it almost never comes out perfect at first. It's when I re-read and revise that I start having fun. Twisting sentences, playing with words - simple amusement that I adore. (Especially while under the influence - but that's neither here nor there).

Allow me to quote another classmate, "I think Stunk and White's book was only more effective in actually stating and reinforcing the basic rules of writing, it would be a good book for reference while writing if you were unsure of what word or punctuation to use at a certain point."
I agree with this because I think Strunk and White has a ton of useful information that is easily accessible for anyone. Nevertheless, Williams is much more effective in it's application. The detail and examples William's gives have much more depth and coherence than that of Strunk and White.

Yet another, (In regards to Strunk and White) "I found arrogance in the writing. I was turned off when these authors put down writers who don’t follow their strict rules. Through discussions in class and close reading, I came to change my opinion. To me, this book now seems to be a conceited way to list personal annoyances rather than truly helpful writing style tips."
I wouldn't go as far to say the book is conceited, but I did pick up on a hint of arrogance. These are old white guys writing a long, long time ago so I can understand where the "its my way or the highway" tone comes from, but they should have given some consideration to great writers who don't always follow the rules. But, on the same account, you need to know the rules before you can bend or break them so maybe this book is supposed to be conceited in nature.

And another, The Williams text expects that you have some previous knowledge and offers some insight into the short comings of other writers so that you can avoid making the same mistakes that could make your writing unclear, disjointed, etc. " The beginning of this quote rings true to me because if I was to read Williams' book when I was 17 or 18, I would have immediately put it down. This book requires some experience and knowledge of writing. Very useful, yes, but not for a beginner. I like how Williams points out shortcomings of writers because I saw my own writing being reflected in his descriptions. Some helpful tips were picked up from Williams and I'm sure it's a book I will not sell back when the semester ends.