Comma splices and fragments in novels?

Question

I have noticed that many authors incorporate the use of fragments and comma splices in their novels. Given that this is acceptable practice in a novel, is it acceptable to use a comma splice or a fragment in a short story written for English class?

Answer 1

This is a good question about the difference between creative writing and class assignments. Since you're also writing a short story for your class, it might be quite feasible to incorporate common fictive narration techniques, especially in dialog. After all, people talk naturally in fragments. On the other hand, since you're writing in a class, you need to follow the instructor's guidelines. But this use of natural language seems quite common to me in fiction, so if you'd like to do this but aren't sure of the instructor's response, you can ask him/her about any guidelines to follow. But in general, I would say typical narrative techniques (such as used by Toni Morrison, or Faulkner) often call for a different voice and style from academic expository essays.