[Grammar] absolute phrases

[outofdejavu]

Dear All:
I wonder whether it is a need to put an "and" in the last absolute phrase in a series.
My grammar and usage books at hand do not talk about that. They only
talk about how to make an absolute phrase.

The Garden of Phrases
On the page, the part on absolute phrases does not mention the "and"
usage either.


These contain "and" in the last one.
- Coach Nykesha strolled onto the court, her arms akimbo and a large
silver whistle clenched between her teeth.
- The evening grew ominous, the breeze gusting more strongly, and
whitecaps giving the lake a frothy, sinister appearance.
- Captain Picard stood alone on the Romulan flagship, his phaser set
on "stun," his tricorder scanning the area, and his eyes darting into
the dark corners of the apparently deserted transporter room.
[The first is quoted out from the page, and the second and the third from my grammar book]


These contain no "and" in the last one.
- The new recruits stood in one corner of the gym, their uniforms
stiff and ill fitting, their faces betraying their anxiety.
- The new pilot brought the crippled airplane safely down for an
emergency landing, her heartbeat finally slowing, her clenched hands
aradually releasing the controls, her relief visible.
[The first is quoted out from the page, and the second from my grammar book]


According to my reading experience, I saw some written with "and" and some not, so I gather that the "and" in the last absolute phrase is not
that absolute. Is it so?

If I am reading, it's no bother.
However, if I am writing, it's bewildering to me whether to put an "and" in the last absolute phrase.


Thank you.

[Anglika]

Welcome to the forums.

It is largely a matter of style and logic. If the sentence became difficult to understand when "and" is omitted, then it should be included. Otherwise it comes down to author's preference as to how the sentence will sound. Omitting "and" in many of the sentences you give will give them a more immediate narrative effect, but also makes them more staccato.

If, when you are writing something, youi find yourself in doubt, you are welcome to ask assistance from us

[outofdejavu]

Appreciate~