Parallelism is the gimmick that allows us to get away with a longer sentence. The brain says, “I’m out of here,” after about twenty words. But often we can keep our reader with us if we make sure that all parts of each sentence are in the same grammatical form. Parallelism means that coordinate or balanced ideas are expressed in the same constructions. Nouns must be parallel with nouns, verbs with verbs, phrases with phrases, clauses with clauses, and so forth. For example, that was forwarded last week and that was delivered by my courier service are parallel constructions. On the other hand, that was forwarded last week and to have been delivered by my courier service are not parallel. Lack of parallelism is a very common problem.
Parallel sentences can add coherence to passages that deserve special attention. This rhetorical device is often used in the best speeches. In the following excerpt from John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address, note how the repetition of words and constructions not only creates coherence but lifts the emotional impact of the passage.
And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.
My fellow citizens of the world, ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.
Finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us here the same high standards of strength and sacrifice which we ask of you. With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on Earth God’s work must truly be our own.
Use the device of parallel sentences sparingly. If it is overused, your letters and reports will have an overblown quality.
Next week: Maintaining Parallelism.
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