William Safire

"William Safire has written the weekly New York Times Magazine column "On Language" since 1979. His observations on grammar, usage and etymology have led to the publication of fourteen "word books" and have made him the most widely read writer on the English language today. The subjects for his columns come from his insights into the current political scene, as well as from technology, entertainment and life in general. Known for his delight in catching...

"An instant classic when first published in 1992 and now substantially revised and expanded, Lend Me Your Ears collects more than two hundred of history's outstanding instances of oratorical eloquence. They are selected, arranged, and introduced by William Safire, considered by many to be the most influential political columnist in America, himself a former speechwriter and language scholar." "The book is arranged by theme and occasion, and each speech...

This volume contains a collection of wise and witty words from famous authors from Aristotle to Zinsser, who comment succinctly and cogently on elements of writing -- from "Accuracy" ("One should always aim at being interesting rather than exact"--Voltaire) to "Writer's Block" (see "Doggedness"). The reader/writer can find solid advice (not surprisingly often contradictory), humor, and inspiration on each page. Now, what to write? Look under "Subject"...