When it comes to writing about the popular breakfast cocktail, the Bloody Mary, many of us find ourselves pondering a crucial question: should it be written as “Bloody Mary’s” or simply “Bloody Marys”? The answer may seem straightforward, but trust us, it’s not as clear-cut as you think. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of grammar, style guides, and linguistic debates to settle the score once and for all.
The Origins of the Bloody Mary
Before we dive into the apostrophe conundrum, let’s take a step back and explore the history of this beloved drink. The Bloody Mary’s origins are shrouded in mystery, with various claims and legends surrounding its creation. One popular story attributes the drink’s invention to a bartender named Fernand Petiot, who worked at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris during the 1920s. According to Petiot, he created the drink as a hangover remedy for a customer who had spent a night carousing with a woman named Mary.
Others argue that the Bloody Mary was inspired by the legend of Queen Mary I, also known as Bloody Mary, who was infamous for her persecution of Protestants during her reign in the 16th century. Regardless of its true origins, the Bloody Mary has become a staple of brunch menus and cocktail parties around the world.
The Apostrophe Conundrum
Now, let’s get back to the main event: the apostrophe debate. When referring to multiple Bloody Marys, do we add an apostrophe to indicate possession (Bloody Mary’s) or use the plural form without any punctuation (Bloody Marys)? The answer largely depends on the style guide you follow.
The Chicago Manual of Style, widely used in book publishing and academic writing, recommends using the plural form without an apostrophe: “Bloody Marys.” This approach treats the drink’s name as a plural noun, similar to “cats” or “dogs.” According to the Chicago Manual, “When the noun is a single word, the plural is formed by adding -s, unless the word ends in -s, -z, -sh, or -ch, in which case the plural is formed by adding -es.”
On the other hand, The AP Stylebook, commonly used in journalism and online publishing, suggests that the correct spelling is indeed “Bloody Mary’s.” AP style dictates that when a possessive noun ends in -s, an additional -s is added to form the possessive. However, AP also recommends using the plural form without an apostrophe in most cases, except when the word is used as a possessive noun.
The Possessive Noun Conundrum
But what if we’re not referring to multiple Bloody Marys, but rather a single Bloody Mary that belongs to someone or something? In this case, the apostrophe is necessary to indicate possession. For example:
- “The bartender’s Bloody Mary was a hit at the party.” (Here, the apostrophe indicates that the Bloody Mary belongs to the bartender.)
- “The Bloody Mary’s flavor was enhanced by the addition of hot sauce.” (In this case, the apostrophe shows that the flavor belongs to the Bloody Mary.)
Grammatical Gray Areas
As we navigate the world of grammar and style guides, it’s essential to acknowledge that there are gray areas where rules aren’t always clear-cut. The Bloody Mary debate is a prime example of this.
Consider the following scenarios:
- “I ordered a Bloody Mary’s at the bar.” (Is the apostrophe correct in this sentence, or should it read “I ordered a Bloody Mary at the bar”?)
- “The Bloody Marys on the menu were overpriced.” (Is the plural form without an apostrophe correct, or should it be “The Bloody Mary’s on the menu…’?)
In these cases, the correct answer largely depends on personal preference and the style guide you’re following. However, it’s essential to be consistent in your writing and choose one approach to avoid confusion.
What Do the Style Guides Say?
Let’s take a look at what other style guides have to say about the Bloody Mary debate:
- The MLA Style Manual: MLA recommends using the plural form without an apostrophe, similar to the Chicago Manual.
- The APA Publication Manual: APA suggests using the plural form with an apostrophe, similar to AP style.
- The Guardian Style Guide: The Guardian recommends using the plural form without an apostrophe, except when the word is used as a possessive noun.
As you can see, there’s no consensus among style guides, which can lead to confusion and inconsistencies.
The Verdict
So, is there an apostrophe in Bloody Marys? The answer is: it depends. If you’re following the Chicago Manual of Style, the correct spelling is “Bloody Marys.” If you’re adhering to AP style, it’s “Bloody Mary’s.” And if you’re using a different style guide, the answer may vary.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to be consistent in your writing and choose one approach to avoid confusion. Whether you’re a staunch advocate of the apostrophe or a proponent of the plural form, the Bloody Mary will always be a delicious and intriguing topic of discussion.
Final Thoughts
As we conclude our exploration of the Bloody Mary debate, it’s essential to remember that language is constantly evolving. Grammar rules and style guides may change over time, but the core of the issue remains: clarity and consistency.
When writing about the Bloody Mary, take a moment to consider the context, the audience, and the style guide you’re following. And if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to consult the experts. After all, a well-crafted sentence is the perfect accompaniment to a well-crafted Bloody Mary.
| Style Guide | Recommended Spelling |
|---|---|
| The Chicago Manual of Style | Bloody Marys |
| The AP Stylebook | Bloody Mary’s |
| The MLA Style Manual | Bloody Marys |
| The APA Publication Manual | Bloody Mary’s |
| The Guardian Style Guide | Bloody Marys |
What is the debate about the Bloody Mary’s apostrophe?
The debate about the Bloody Mary’s apostrophe revolves around whether the name of the cocktail should include an apostrophe or not. Some people argue that the correct spelling is “Bloody Mary’s” with an apostrophe, while others claim that it should be spelled “Bloody Mary” without an apostrophe. This debate has sparked intense discussion among linguists, bartenders, and cocktail enthusiasts.
The debate is not just about semantics; it also raises questions about the origin and meaning of the name “Bloody Mary.” Is the drink named after Queen Mary I, also known as Bloody Mary, or is it a reference to a mysterious figure from folklore? The apostrophe’s presence or absence may hold clues to the drink’s etymology.
What is the historical context of the Bloody Mary cocktail?
The Bloody Mary cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, although its exact origin is unclear. One story claims that it was created by a bartender at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris in the 1920s. Another story suggests that it was invented by a bartender at the King Cole Bar in New York City in the 1930s. Regardless of its true origin, the Bloody Mary has become a staple cocktail in bars and restaurants around the world.
The historical context of the Bloody Mary is important in understanding the debate about the apostrophe. If the drink is named after a person, such as Queen Mary I, the apostrophe would be appropriate to indicate possession. However, if the name “Bloody Mary” refers to a concept or a mythical figure, the apostrophe may not be necessary.
What do style guides say about the Bloody Mary’s apostrophe?
Style guides, such as the Chicago Manual of Style and the AP Stylebook, provide guidelines for punctuation and grammar. According to the Chicago Manual of Style, the correct spelling is “Bloody Mary,” without an apostrophe. The AP Stylebook, on the other hand, recommends “Bloody Mary’s” with an apostrophe.
It’s worth noting that style guides are not always consistent, and different guides may have different recommendations. Ultimately, the decision to use an apostrophe or not depends on personal preference or the style guide being followed. However, in formal writing and publications, it’s best to stick to a style guide’s recommendations to ensure consistency.
What do bartenders and cocktail experts say about the debate?
Bartenders and cocktail experts are often divided on the issue of the Bloody Mary’s apostrophe. Some insist that the correct spelling is “Bloody Mary’s” because it evokes the idea of the drink belonging to someone or something. Others argue that the apostrophe is unnecessary and that the name “Bloody Mary” is sufficient.
In reality, bartenders and cocktail experts are more concerned with the ingredients, preparation, and flavor profile of the Bloody Mary than with the apostrophe. The debate is more of a theoretical exercise, with both sides presenting valid arguments.
Is the name “Bloody Mary” a reference to Queen Mary I?
One theory is that the Bloody Mary cocktail is named after Queen Mary I, also known as Bloody Mary, who ruled England from 1553 to 1558. During her reign, Mary I earned the nickname “Bloody Mary” due to her persecution of Protestants and the numerous executions that took place during her reign.
While the connection to Queen Mary I is plausible, there is no concrete evidence to support this theory. The origins of the Bloody Mary cocktail are shrouded in mystery, and it’s possible that the name “Bloody Mary” is simply a reference to the drink’s bloody red color or its spicy flavor.
What are the implications of the debate for language and culture?
The debate about the Bloody Mary’s apostrophe has implications for language and culture beyond the realm of cocktail names. It raises questions about the power of language to shape our perceptions and understanding of the world. The apostrophe’s presence or absence may seem like a minor detail, but it can influence the way we think about the drink’s origins and meaning.
Moreover, the debate highlights the dynamic nature of language and culture. Words and phrases can evolve over time, taking on new meanings and connotations. The Bloody Mary’s apostrophe may be a small aspect of this larger process, but it reflects the ongoing dialogue between language, culture, and society.
Will the debate ever be resolved?
The debate about the Bloody Mary’s apostrophe is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon. Both sides have valid arguments, and the issue is largely a matter of personal preference. Ultimately, the decision to use an apostrophe or not depends on individual taste and the context in which the name is being used.
Furthermore, the debate is not about finding a “correct” answer, but rather about exploring the complexities of language and culture. The discussion itself is valuable, as it encourages us to think critically about the words we use and the meanings we assign to them.