The Editor, Sir:

In response to Reverend Dick's column 'What's wrong with clapping at graduations?' on July 29, I agree with everything that he says.

Clapping just adds so much to graduation ceremonies which, even though are monumental occasions, are generally too drawn out and dull.

Graduations should be occasions of joy, and nothing helps to create the overall joyous mood like rounds of applause and shouts from the audience members.

Principals and chancellors of Jamaican schools, allow clapping at graduations! If I wanted to be sombre, I would go to a funeral!

I am, etc.,

JEFFREY BROWN

jeffrey.brown@yale.edu