Monsters, Inc.

Just 23 years ago, we saw a major motion picture (🫡) whose title comprises 12 letters and two punctuation marks. That’s a staggering one-in-seven punctuation density.

Nor am I talking about load-bearing punctuation, as in Deadpool & Wolverine or Minions: The Rise of Gru. The movie could’ve been called Monsters Inc and few viewers would’ve noticed any difference.

I’m sure that’s the version studio execs would opt for today. Look at Olivia Rodrigo ruthlessly depunctuating “drivers license” so texters can tap it out with minimal fuss.

Though “drivers license” is a good song, I miss the old regime. Punctuation enables precision, which I happen to like.