In Paragraphs^x, Predicates^x, Commas^x

Avangi, I completely agree with your first post. In a strict narrative paragraph, you don't seperate a compound predicate with a comma. However, to create a pause, for dramatic effect, the comma is just perfect.

Most authorities consider it error to use a comma where none is authorized. Only opting against an authorized is a matter of style. "Optional stylistic pause(s)" must have reasons, exhausted by syntax and semantics. Some linguists say the comma is governed entirely by semantics, but...

Hi sd15, Welcome to the English Forums. I'm afraid all our gurus have gone home for the night. I agree there's no grammatical justification for the comma, and I agree that you have a compound predicate. I'd take the comma as an optional stylistic pause. Would that be semantic? If you...