A New Dictionary of Quotations of Historical Principles H L Mencken 1942 Knoff First edition
This great work, which Mr. Mencken had in preparation for twenty-five years. differs from all other existing dictionaries of quotations in several important aspects. It is planned on strictly historical principles, with every possible quotation dated. In all cases Mr. Mencken has sought to discover the first utterer of a saying or idea, and has disregarded all those who have merely echoed it without significant change. The names of authors and titles of books quoted are given in full, save in a few obvious cases. Thus the present volume may be used without reference to other works of whatever description. It omits mere platitudes, and confines itself to authors who had something to say and said it to good effect. But all the immemorial tags and scraps of human wisdom have been included, and special attention is given to the great Proverbs of every civilization. The translations from foreign languages are mainly new, avoiding the usual stiffness; and whenever it seems helpful the original text is given in parentheses. The Biblical and Shakespearean quotations are newly chosen, and include many that are unfamiliar. Many of the most original writers, not usually included in collections of this nature, are here liberally represented - e.g. Locke, Balthasar Gracián, the early Christian Fathers, Lichtenberg, Marx, the Popes, Huxley, Bierce, and hundreds more who appear only scantily, or not at all, in other works. The quotations are arranged under many more rubrics than is customary, making it the easiest of all books of quotations to use, and that without constant reference to a bulky and baffling index. Proper names are included in the general alphabet, with quotations showing the ebb and flow of opinion about notable men in all fields of endeavor. Lastly, it is almost unnecessary to add that this is something more than a work of reference. Because it is prepared by H. L. Mencken, it is a book that can be dipped into purely for pleasure at any point.
Book is very nice vintage condition with some stain on front cover 9see photo) ri