Mark Twain-Fenimore Cooper's Literary Offenses

In his essay examining (or shall I say skewering) James Fenimore Cooper's writing, Mark Twain gives aspiring authors an excellent style guide.  At the end of a rather long list, he suggests that the author shall:

•  Say what he is proposing to say, not merely come near it. 
•  Use the right word, not its second cousin. 
•  Eschew surplusage.
•  Not omit necessary details.
•  Avoid slovenliness of form.
•  Use good grammar.
•  Employ a simple and straightforward style.

Good advice from one of America's greatest writers.
For the hilarious essay in its entirety, click here:   Fenimore Cooper's Literary Offenses