comma and compound word questions

[htdcd]

I have two sentences that I'm not 100% sure on, and I'd like some feedback on the correct usage and spelling.

Sentence one is a comma question. Which version is correct?
"Things become clear much later, but by then that awkwardness can’t be undone."
OR
"Things become clear much later, but by then, that awkwardness can’t be undone."

Sentence two is a compound word used as an adjective question. Which version is correct?
"It could be chalked up to archetypal characters and conflict, were it not for the fanfiction feel of the entire plot."
OR
"It could be chalked up to archetypal characters and conflict, were it not for the fan-fiction feel of the entire plot."
OR
"It could be chalked up to archetypal characters and conflict, were it not for the fan fiction feel of the entire plot."

Thanks!

[MsH2k]

Hi,

For your first sentence, the second option is preferable. There could possibly be a debate about this since the phrase is so short, but it is an adverbial phrase (tells when) that modifies the entire second clause, and it is best to use a comma for these types of phrases. It also adds clarity. Here is a reference that I find helpful: https://theeditorsblog.net/2016/02/21/a ... the-comma/

For your second sentence, I would Google the word and check how it's spelled in a couple of dictionaries. Merriam Webster spells it "fan fiction," and Cambridge spells it "fanfiction." It is listed as a noun in the dictionaries, so since you're using it as an adjective modifying "feel," it should at least be hyphenated. This would mean the first or second options should be fine.
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dic ... fanfiction
https://www.merriam-webster.com/diction ... %20fiction
https://www.grammarbook.com/punctuation/hyphens.asp#

I hope this helps!

[htdcd]

Yes, thank you, that is extraordinarily helpful! I appreciate your time to give me the feeback!