The Story Behind The Semi-Colon.

On my right forearm, measuring about 1/2" by 1 1/2", I've had a semi-colon tattooed. Generally, upon showing it to someone for the first time, I'm met with the question: "So... Are you, like, a writer or something?" Or, "Let me guess: you're an English major, right?" Occasionally, I've been asked, "Are you into music then?" (I think those who ask about music mistake the semi-colon for a bass clef. I know they look nothing alike, but it's the only explanation I can come up with.)

And yes: I consider myself a writer. Yes, I'm an English major. And, while not related to my tattoo at all, I will admit that I'm "into" music.

However, none of these are the reason behind my choice to have it permanently inked into my skin. The reason for doing so is, quite simply, as follows:

The semi-colon, in a sentence, is used to link two independent clauses. What comes before a semi-colon is always directly related to what comes after a semi-colon. The semi-colon is often used to fluidly segue from one train of thought to the next, keeping the clauses separate, but part of a whole; though the clauses may be seemingly unrelated, they're both part of the same idea.

Thus, the semi-colon indicates a transition in thought.



And that is the reason it's tattooed on my forearm; it's a reminder of the constant evolution, progression, and transitioning of self.