Holy Trinity juniors in AP English explored “Split Infinitive,” a witty essay by author and professor Sam Pickering. The piece, which first caught the eye of Mr. Mosmeyer decades ago in the Texas Review, has become a classroom favorite, sparking discussions about grammar, language, and the joy of words.
After sharing this tradition with his students, Mr. Mosmeyer reached out to Dr. Pickering, who replied with warmth and humor from his home in Nova Scotia. In his note, Pickering reflected on the fleeting nature of books, the fun of words, and the joy of sharing language with his wife, grandchildren, and even over dinner conversations.
The exchange was a reminder that while grammar lessons may fade, the love of language endures—and continues to connect generations of readers, writers, and students.