[stylist] Style question

[Bridgit Pollpeter]

Donna,

While there are what seems many exceptions, yes, in AP style, numbers
over ten are numeral form, although, if the number begins a sentence,
you would spell it out.  Typically in creative writing, numbers are
always spelled out, and time usually has the "o clock" attached to it.
However, in creative writing nowadays, the rules are different, and it
just depends on how a writer wants to present things.  Because
journalism follows stricter standards, it is more important to follow
whatever style a given publication prescribes to, but in your creative
writing, it is up to you.  The only advice I would give is to be
consistent.  If you choose to follow a numeral format in your creative
writing, just make sure that format is consistent throughout your text.

Bridgit

Message: 3
Date: Mon, 23 May 2011 10:09:57 -0400
From: "Donna Hill" <penatwork at epix.net>
To: "Writer's Division Mailing List" <stylist at nfbnet.org>
Subject: [stylist] Style question
Message-ID: <d7f5db$2t4de6 at out01.dlls.pa.frontiernet.net>
Content-Type: text/plain;	charset="us-ascii"

Hi  Friends,

Here's a question that is troubling me which involves what I think is a
difference between writing for news outlets and writing fiction. It's
about time and mentioning it in conversation. Would a character say .?

1. "I'll see you at ten." 

Or 

2. "I'll see you at 10."

 

In other words, would you use the numerals or spell it out? And would it
make any difference if you included "o'clock?" My understanding of AP
style is that you use numerals if it's over 10 and always for times. I
was taught to spell out numbers in fiction unless they are bigger than
two words, and I'd be inclined to write out "ten o'clock," but I need
some clarification as to whether this is still OK.  

Thanks,

Donna