Neverisms: A Quotation Lover's Guide to Things You Should Never Do, Never Say, or Never Forget by Mardy Grothe Summary

Neverisms is a curated collection of over 2,000 quotations that begin with the word "never," offering witty, wise, and often humorous advice on topics like life, relationships, and human behavior. Organized thematically, it blends classic sayings with modern insights, accompanied by Dr. Grothe’s commentary on their origins and relevance.

This book is ideal for quotation enthusiasts, writers, speakers, and anyone who enjoys wordplay or practical wisdom. It’s particularly valuable for those seeking creative inspiration, historical context for memorable phrases, or a lighthearted yet insightful read.

Yes—critics and readers praise it for its unique concept, engaging storytelling, and blend of humor and wisdom. With accolades from prominent wordsmiths, it’s a standout resource for understanding how "never" statements shape human communication and decision-making.

Notable examples include:

• “Never go to a doctor whose office plants have died” (Erma Bombeck)
• “Never let the fear of striking out get in your way” (Babe Ruth)
• “Never trust a computer you can’t lift” (Steve Jobs)

The book groups quotes into chapters based on themes (e.g., politics, business) or linguistic patterns (e.g., “Never underestimate,” “Never trust”). Each chapter includes Dr. Grothe’s analysis of the quotes’ historical or cultural significance.

Coined by Dr. Grothe, a “neverism” is a quotation starting with “never” that delivers advice, warnings, or observations. These range from humorous one-liners to profound life lessons, reflecting universal human experiences.

Like Oxymoronica (paradoxes) and Ifferisms (“if”-based quotes), Neverisms focuses on a specific linguistic device. However, it uniquely explores the persuasive power of prohibitive statements, making it a companion piece to his broader work on language.

The quotes emphasize resilience (“Never give in” – Winston Churchill), self-awareness (“Never take yourself too seriously”), and practicality (“Never argue with a fool” – Mark Twain), offering timeless guidance for personal and professional challenges.

The anthology provides a treasure trove of quotable material for speeches, presentations, or creative projects. Its thematic organization helps users quickly find relevant quotes for inspiration or persuasive communication.

Chapters address diverse subjects, including leadership (“Never let a crisis go to waste”), relationships (“Never marry for money”), and humor (“Never eat more than you can lift” – Miss Piggy), ensuring broad appeal.

Dr. Grothe combines scholarly rigor with accessibility, offering lively backstories for many quotes. His annotations clarify contexts—from literary origins to pop culture—making the book both educational and entertaining.

While praised for its depth, some readers may find the sheer volume of quotes overwhelming. However, the thematic structure and Dr. Grothe’s commentary help navigate the content efficiently.