Collects hundreds of paradoxical and contradictory observations by a range of writers, politicians, philosophers, and public figures, in a language-lover's reference to such phrases as Less is more and Art is a lie that makes us realize the truth. 20,000 first printing.

'An idea is a feat of association, and the height of it is a good metaphor' - Robert Frost. 'It is metaphor above all else that gives clearness, charm and distinction to the style' - Aristotle. Throughout history, great minds have demonstrated a special ability to ingeniously and creatively find a relationship between things that initially seem quite alien to each other. This talent was recognised as early as 2500 years ago by Aristotle. Metaphors may be the most versatile tool in the toolbox of a person who is trying to express a powerful idea. In this book, linguistic specialist Grothe discusses the use of metaphor in a wide variety of life settings. He presents metaphors in life altering situations; about the human condition; in wit and humor; insults and criticism; relationships; love; marriage; sex; stages and ages of life; stage and screen; politics; sports; and, the literary life.

What do Mae West, John F. Kennedy, Victor Hugo, and H. L. Mencken have in common? They all indulged in chiasmus-a literary device in which word order is reversed to hilarious or poignant effect. When Mae West said, "It's not the men in my life, it's the life in my men," she was using chiasmus; when John F. Kennedy said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country," he was doing the same. Dr. Mardy Grothe has compiled hundreds of examples of chiasmus in this whimsically illustrated collection, bringing this witty and thought-provoking device out of obscurity and into the public imagination.

Respected quotation anthologist and author of Oxymoronica and Viva la Repartee Dr. Mardy Grothe is at his best in Metaphors Be with You, an A to Z dictionary of 2,750 of history's greatest metaphorical quotations, meticulously curated for writers, readers, and quotation lovers everywhere. In Metaphors Be with You, Dr. Mardy Grothe has created the definitive reference on English's finest metaphors, sourced from literature, politics, philosophy, Hollywood, religion, sports, comedy, history, religion, pop culture, and more. Arranged into two sections-"The Ten Best Things Ever Said" and "The Single Best Thing Ever Said"-Metaphors Be with You includes quotations on five hundred human interest topics and an introduction to the nature, importance, and sheer joy of metaphorical language. Essential for writers, readers, and language aficionados, this breathtaking, beautifully designed sourcebook also contains elegantly integrated digital access to Dr. Mardy's Dictionary of Metaphorical Quotations, the world's largest online database of quotations containing metaphors, similes, and analogies. This one-of-a-kind synergy between print and technology offers a comprehensive look at the diversity of words and phrases we use to relate to, understand, and describe our world by providing access to detailed source information, innumerable "Error Alerts," and fascinating quotation backstories that will engage readers as they delve into metaphorical language and discover their own favorites. Whether you're crafting a speech, writing a novel, or simply searching for new ways to express yourself, this remarkable compendium is sure to inspire you with the perfect metaphor every time.