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Quotations Books
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James Wood
Dictionary of Quotations from Ancient and Modern, English and Foreign Sources Including Phrases, Mottoes, Maxims, Proverbs, Definitions, Aphorisms, and Sayings of Wise Men, in Their Bearing on Life, Literature, Speculation, Science, Art, Religion, and Morals, Especially in the Modern Aspects of Them
"Dictionary of Quotations from Ancient and Modern, English and Foreign Sources" by the Rev. James Wood is a collection of notable quotations compiled in the late 19th century. This comprehensive work includes phrases, maxims, proverbs, definitions, and aphorisms that pertain to various subjects, such as life, literature, science, and morality. The collection aims to provide readers with insight and wisdom gathered from a wide range of ancient and modern thought. At the start of the text, the editor shares his purpose for creating this work, emphasizing the need for a more extensive compilation of quotations that addresses contemporary interests. He explains that while there are many excellent collections available, this one seeks to encompass a broader array of wisdom, especially from modern writings that reflect current societal concerns. The preface also outlines the book's organization, which is alphabetical rather than topical, and establishes the Editor's intention to present meaningful insights that are thought-provoking and relevant to the reader's life.
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Familiar Quotations A Collection of Passages, Phrases, and Proverbs Traced to Their Sources in Ancient and Modern Literature
"Familiar Quotations" by John Bartlett is a reference work first published in 1855. Born from Bartlett's commonplace book while running a Cambridge bookstore, this collection organizes quotations by author chronologically rather than by subject. Now in its nineteenth edition, it has evolved from 258 pages featuring 169 authors to a comprehensive compilation that sparked debates about balancing literary classics with contemporary culture. The book remains America's longest-lived and most widely distributed quotation collection.
Edouard Fournier
L'esprit dans l'histoire: Recherches et curiosités sur les mots historiques
"L'esprit dans l'histoire: Recherches et curiosités sur les mots historiques" by Édouard Fournier is a scholarly publication written in the late 19th century. The book examines historical terminology and challenges the veracity of widely accepted historical narratives, particularly those regarding France. Fournier aims to dissect common misconceptions and falsehoods that have been perpetuated through time, focusing on the incorrect attribution of quotes and deeds to historical figures. The opening of the work introduces Fournier's ambitious goal of tackling what he refers to as "historical words" and the accompanying lies that have become entrenched in the narrative of French history. He expresses a strong desire to debunk these myths, demonstrating a passion for separating fact from fiction and countering the blandness of accepted historical tales. Fournier reflects on various historical anecdotes and figures, acknowledging that many popular beliefs are rooted in inaccuracies that have slipped through the cracks of traditional narratives, setting the stage for a critical examination of the history that has shaped national identity.
Georg Büchmann
Geflügelte Worte: Der Citatenschatz des deutschen Volkes
"Geflügelte Worte: Der Citatenschatz des deutschen Volkes" by Georg Büchmann is a quotation collection first published in 1864. This landmark work transformed how Germans understood popular sayings by tracing familiar phrases to their literary origins. Büchmann gathered quotations from the Bible, ancient Greek and Roman texts, and European literature, providing exact sources and meanings for each entry. The collection became a cultural phenomenon, establishing the term "geflügelte Worte" (winged words) for quotations that entered everyday speech. Updated through numerous editions, it remains a fascinating treasury of linguistic heritage.
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Toaster's Handbook: Jokes, Stories, and Quotations
"Toaster's Handbook: Jokes, Stories, and Quotations" by Peggy Edmund and Harold Workman Williams is a collection of humorous anecdotes, jokes, and quotations compiled for the purpose of aiding speakers in delivering toasts, likely written in the early 20th century. The book serves as a resource for those faced with the daunting task of speaking in social situations, providing a variety of material that is both entertaining and thought-provoking to lighten the mood and engage an audience. The opening of the book begins with a preface that captures the anxieties associated with making a toast at a gathering. It sets the tone for the handbook as a light-hearted manual intended to rescue nervous speakers from their fears by presenting a well-organized selection of jokes and stories categorized under various subjects. Notably, the preface emphasizes the importance of humor in social interactions and suggests that the sense of humor can smooth over the complexities of public speaking. The subsequent sections are aimed at guiding readers on how to respond to their audience effectively, promoting a sense of camaraderie and laughter while delivering a toast.
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My Commonplace Book
"My Commonplace Book" by J. T. Hackett is a collection of quotations reflecting on thoughts and experiences primarily drawn from the late 19th century. This compilation offers insights into various literary and philosophical ideas, with a significant portion attributed to Hackett's mentor, Richard Hodgson, a significant figure in psychical research and literature. The book serves as a repository of wisdom from both well-known and lesser-known authors, designed for casual reading and contemplation. The opening of "My Commonplace Book" begins with a dedication to Richard Hodgson, showcasing Hackett's admiration for his friend's character and intellect. He shares that many of the quotations are derived from their correspondence, illustrating their deep intellectual bond. The introductory section discusses the nature of commonplace books, emphasizing that this collection is not an anthology but a personal compilation of thoughts that have influenced Hackett's literary journey. This context prepares readers for an eclectic mix of literary reflections and philosophies that underscore the struggles and triumphs of the human experience, along with remarkable literary gems that may have since been forgotten.
Michel de Montaigne
Quotes and Images From The Works of Michel De Montaigne
"Quotes and Images From The Works of Michel De Montaigne" by Michel de Montaigne is a collection of notable quotations from his renowned essays. Written during the late 16th century, this publication distills key insights from Montaigne's writings, which explore themes of human nature, philosophy, and the intricacies of social life. The book features a selection of quotations that reflect Montaigne's contemplative style and quite often focus on self-reflection and the human condition. The content of the book is primarily composed of various aphorisms and reflections that encapsulate Montaigne's thought process. Each quote serves as a succinct expression of ideas stemming from his expansive essays, which delve into topics such as the nature of friendship, the challenges of understanding oneself and others, and the philosophical musings on life and death. The quotations are not presented as a cohesive narrative but rather as standalone reflections that invite readers to ponder the complexities of existence and the wisdom gathered through lived experiences. Through these succinct and insightful phrases, Montaigne opens a window into his intellectual world, offering timeless insights that resonate even today.
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Familiar Quotations
"Familiar Quotations" by John Bartlett is a reference work first published in 1855. Born from Bartlett's personal notebook of memorable phrases, this groundbreaking collection arranges quotations by author chronologically rather than by subject. Through nineteen editions spanning nearly two centuries, it has evolved from a modest 258-page compilation of English literary classics to a comprehensive cultural archive. The work's editorial choices—what quotations deserve inclusion and which voices merit preservation—have sparked ongoing debates about literary canon, political bias, and cultural relevance in American intellectual life.
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A Cyclopædia of Sacred Poetical Quotations Consisting of Choice Passages from the Sacred Poetry of All Ages and Countries, Classified and Arranged, for Facility of Reference, Under Subject Headings; Illustrated by Striking Passages from Scripture, and Forming Altogether a Complete Book of Devotional Poetry.
"A Cyclopædia of Sacred Poetical Quotations" by H. G. Adams is a collection of religious poetry compiled in the late 19th century. This work presents a selection of poetic excerpts that explore sacred themes, drawn from various ages and cultures, and is organized under specific subject headings for easy reference. The compilation aims to provide readers with a complete resource for devotional poetry that reflects significant truths of Christianity and spiritual beliefs. The opening of the text begins with an introduction and a preface outlining the editor's intent to create a comprehensive collection of religious poetry. It emphasizes the importance of sacred themes in poetry, citing various inspirational poets, and it stresses the goal of including only unsectarian works that transcend doctrinal differences. Additionally, the editor highlights the inclusion of scripture quotations to enrich the poetic passages selected, setting the tone for a book that aspires to be a profound source of spiritual reflection and inspiration for readers.
John Purver Richardson
Life and Literature Over two thousand extracts from ancient and modern writers, and classified in alphabetical order
"Life and Literature" by John Purver Richardson is a collection of literary extracts compiled in the early 20th century. The book presents over two thousand selections from both ancient and modern writers, organized alphabetically. It aims to provide readers with a treasury of literary gems designed to enrich the mind and spirit, encouraging personal growth and introspection. At the start of the compilation, the author introduces the work with a preface that invites readers to engage with the selections, promising that they will foster wisdom and enlightenment. Each extract, beginning with varying themes such as abilities, absence, and actions, reflects different facets of human experience and relationships, offering concise yet profound insights. The opening portion sets the tone for the rest of the collection, presenting a diverse array of thoughts that encourage reflection on life's complexities and the beauty of literature.
W. A. (William Alexander) Clouston
Book of Wise Sayings Selected Largely from Eastern Sources
"Book of Wise Sayings" by W. A. Clouston is a collection of aphorisms and proverbs primarily sourced from Eastern literature, written in the late 19th century. This work compiles various wise sayings that reflect on moral principles, human nature, and the virtues of life. The selected quotations are drawn from renowned texts of Hindu, Buddhist, Chinese, and Arabic philosophy, among others, emphasizing the universality of wisdom throughout different cultures. The opening section introduces the main theme of the collection, reflecting on the power and relevance of wise sayings. Clouston highlights that while many may disregard proverbs as mere clichés, they encapsulate practical wisdom that can profoundly affect one’s life. He argues that these pithy observations are especially beneficial for youth, guiding them in their moral and ethical decisions. The initial aphorisms offered set a tone of introspection, encouraging readers to consider their passions, relationships, and the importance of knowledge, thereby inviting contemplation on how these age-old truths apply to contemporary living.
Mark Twain
Quotes and Images From The Works of Mark Twain
"Quotes and Images From The Works of Mark Twain" by Mark Twain is a compilation of notable quotes and excerpts from the esteemed author's vast body of work, likely produced during the late 19th to early 20th century. This collection encompasses a range of Twain's themes, showcasing his sharp wit, humor, and critical observations on various aspects of society and human nature. As a collection of quotations rather than a narrative-driven text, it presents a selection of Twain's most impactful and memorable statements. The book serves as a reflection of Twain's worldview, encapsulating his insights on life, morality, love, and the absurdities of existence. Each quotation, often accompanied by brief contextual notes, invites readers to ponder deeper meanings while appreciating Twain's mastery of language and thought. The quotations reveal themes such as the fallibility of human nature, the complexities of justice, societal norms, and the dynamics of identity. Readers can gain a profound understanding of Twain's comedic and critical perspectives on American life and the human condition through this engaging collection.
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