Punctuation Factory

Panel 1 Caption: With the windows open in the summer heat, a breeze blows through the punctuation factory, scattering newly-minted marks across the countryside.

Image: a small factory with windows open and punctuation marks coming out

Panel 2 Caption: Confused locals find their conversations peppered with unexpected pauses and unwanted emphasis.

Image: Two people talking as punctuation marks float around them One says

This, is “very odd”

The other replies

…(Indeed)*

Panel 3 Caption: Naturalists note that the effect is not limited to human communication.

Image: A duck on a pond surrounded by punctuation marks says Qu’ack?

Panel 4 Caption: Fortunately, a cloud of exclamation points drift into a district council meeting which proceeds with unusual efficiency

Image: Councillors talk in a cloud of exclamation points Something must be done!! ! Close the windows! !! Install air conditioning! !! Immediately!!! !