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On the analogy of 'Dictionary Johnson,' we call Fred R…

“On the analogy of 'Dictionary Johnson,' we call Fred R. Shapiro, editor of the just-published Yale Book of Quotations (well worth the $50 price), 'Quotationeer Shapiro.' . . . Shapiro does original research, earning his 1,067-page volume a place on the quotation shelf next to Bartlett's and…” quote by William Safire
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“On the analogy of 'Dictionary Johnson,' we call Fred R. Shapiro, editor of the just-published Yale Book of Quotations (well worth the $50 price), 'Quotationeer Shapiro.' . . . Shapiro does original research, earning his 1,067-page volume a place on the quotation shelf next to Bartlett's and Oxford's.”

William Safire

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Fred R. Shapiro is humorously dubbed "Quotationeer" for his extensive work compiling quotations.

In simple terms: Shapiro is called Quotationeer for his quotation work.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the effort behind compiling quotes.

Themes

language humor scholarship

Mood

respectful lighthearted

Type

informative humorous

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • publishing
  • reference work
  • library cataloging

Key Concepts

lexicography research editing

Questions to Reflect On

  • What value does meticulous quotation research add?
  • How does humor affect scholarly reputation?
A Different Perspective

The nickname may oversimplify his scholarly contributions.

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