A Contrarian's Dictionary: 2000 Damnable Definitions for the Year 2000 [Paperback]

Murray L. Bob (Author), Bob L. Murray (Author), Wilhelm Busch (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1, 1998

A 200 page dictionary containing 2,000 definitions for contrarians, sceptics and realists. The viewpoint is iconoclastic and the style is satiric. The goal is to "define" terms, names, and euphemisms in an amusing, pithy way. Many of the entries are topical and quotable. All (with the exception, perhaps, of half-a-dozen) are original.

Most of the entries are one-, two-, and three-liners, although a few are longer. Inspired by Ambrose Bierce's classic, "Devil's Dictionary," this is a book that will make the reader think - and smile. Topics covered include: politics, economics, religion, psychology, film, the theater, literature, philosophy, New Age, management, media, personalities, and entertainment.

Many of the definitions are accompanied by marvelous illustrations by the greatest cartoonist- caricaturist who ever lived, Wilhelm Busch.

A bible for sceptics, cynics, sinners, and radicals of all stripes. True believers read at their own risk!

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

There are many books of quotations, but virtually all ransack the writings of dead authors or plunder one another. This book is original and would be fun for anyone to read, but may be of particular use to speakers, writers, toastmasters. It makes a wonderful book for anyone who's "heard it all and had it up to here." It would be in place in home, office, or library, on a bedside or pottyside table and can be read straight through or a bit at a time, re-read and serve as a source for reference or revelry.

The fact that the terms defined are very up-to-date - referring to personalities, events, and situations in the news, gives the book broad and immediate appeal. On the other hand, many entries cover topics of on-going interest. [See excerpts]

Comments received from notable readers of "A Contrarian's Dictionary": "A pleasing mixture of good thinking, good writing and good fun. I recommend it," Thomas Szasz, M.D., author or "The Myth Of Mental Illness." "Much of it is hilarious; and the epigrams are thoughtful and to the point," Jacob Suhl, editor, Dinge der Zeit. "I like it," Edward Hoagland, author of "The Snow Leopard" and "The Tugman's Passage." "Thank you very much for your very well produced book. I dip into it from time to time and find it very amusing," Stan Trevor, poet.

From the Author

In order of importance, my intention is, first, to make you smile inwardly if not outwardly and then to make you think. Not every definition will do both (some may not do either), but I'd like to believe that most readers will do at least one or the other, most times.

If you laugh out loud, it will be a bonus. If your life is changed, it will be a miracle - and I don't believe in miracles. But, if some of the definitions cause you to say, "Aha" or to view a thing from a fresh perspective, they will have done their job - which is to tickle or provoke. Some definitions are pure wordplay - nonsense, kidding around. So what? Shakespeare was the Pontiff of Pun. If he could do it, surely we pygmies can.

Since the greatest joy contrarians can have is to communicate with others of their ilk, please let me know how you feel about this book, after you have read it.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 200 pages
• Publisher: Contrarian Pr; 1st edition (January 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0966015401
• ISBN-13: 978-0966015409
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #7,635,372 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Smart and funny as hell, June 28, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: A Contrarian's Dictionary: 2000 Damnable Definitions for the Year 2000 (Paperback)

Startling quips and wry observations from a world-weary observer of the human condition. Bob has rescued wit from near extinction and used its power to skewer the absurdities of modern existence. A delightful read on many levels.