Et Cetera, Et Cetera: 2notes of a Word-Watcher

Lewis Thomas. Penguin Books, $10 (208pp) ISBN 978-0-14-015875-5

In these short, investigative essays, Thomas explores words' origins and historical transformations, remarks on words he considers particularly likable or deplorable, and muses on the probable development of a universal language. According to PW , ``Thomas's gentle ruminations will be enjoyed by those who share his etymological enchantment.'' (Nov.)

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