Words to Live By: The Origins of Conventional Wisdom and Commonsense Advice - Softcover

Another in Panati's series of books on origins (e.g., Sacred Origins of Profound Things, LJ 12/96), this text identifies the sources of pithy maxims such as "the devil made me do it" or "no pain no gain." Panati's choice of sources is eclectic, including the Bible and the Declaration of Independence as well as the words of cartoonists, songwriters, and comedians. Quotes are arranged topically in chapters with subject headings such as "Responsibility and Self-Respect." Entries include the maxim, its original source, an interpretation of its meaning, and a history of its development. Chapters typically include a definition of the chapter topic and collections of quotes on the subject by notable people, e.g., "American Presidents on Freedom." An entertaining browser; recommended for public and academic libraries where there is interest in the topic.AShana C. Fair, Ohio Univ. Lib., Zanesville
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