Book Review – The World in a Phrase: A Brief History of the Aphorism

by Race Bannon on June 14, 2009

The World in a Phrase: A Brief History of the Aphorism
By James Geary
Published by Bloomsbury USA

Quotes and aphorisms have always fascinated me. There’s something compelling about short, concise wisdom that packs a punch that longer prose might not. For those people like me who worship these forms of writing, I urge you to read this book.

James Geary’s book is a masterpiece. It chronicles and expounds upon notable aphorisms from the ancient wisdom of Lao-Tzu and Buddha to the more contemporary Barbara Kruger. Along the way you learn a bit of history, biographical backgrounds and chunks of hearty information that satisfies in a way few books do. It is a self educator’s treasure trove.

This book has become a member of my own personal top 10 list. I highly recommend it.

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