2.1.7 Separating Citations in Running Text

When multiple citations appear in ordinary prose or within parentheses, separate them according to how closely related they are and how easily the reader can distinguish them. Similar or parallel references may usually be separated by commas.

• The formula appears in several related passages: AL 1:40, 1:57, 2:21.
• The same point appears elsewhere in the Holy Books (AL 1:40, 1:57, 2:21).

When the references are more complex or dissimilar, use semicolons for clarity. This is especially helpful when citations include different chapters, books, sections, lines, or mixed citation systems.

• The discussion draws on AL 1:40; 2:21, 76; and 3:60.
• Crowley treats the practice in Liber E; Liber ABA, chap. 3; and Magick Without Tears, chap. 12.
• The same practice is treated in several instructional texts (Liber E; Liber ABA, chap. 3; Magick Without Tears, chap. 12).

The same principle applies inside parentheses: use commas for similar references and semicolons for mixed or dissimilar references. Semicolons help prevent the reader from mistaking one level of citation for another, especially when references move between texts, chapters, verses, sections, or non-hierological works.