Ferdie Addis: 5 books

Ever claimed that there is 'no rest for the wicked', judged something as 'sour grapes', or rallied friends by shouting 'eat, drink and be merry'? Knowingly or not, you have been quoting from the Bible. The English language features countless biblically-derived phrases that are used by people on a day-to-day...

It has been one of those days. You've worked like a Trojan, displaying titanic strength and stoic endurance to overcome the Herculean labours that have faced you in order to meet that deadline. We regularly employ classically-derived expressions in our everyday language, yet many of us have little understanding...

Sticks and stones may break bones, but words can inspire an angry mob to pick up those clubs in the first place. This collection of fifty speeches reveals how men and women throughout the ages changed the course of history. Featuring classical orators, wartime heroes, and contemporary icons, from...

To read of Elizabeth I addressing her troops before the Spanish Armada, or Martin Luther-King urging the American population for racial equality is to understand the tremendous power of language to inspire, to comfort, to move, or to enthuse an audience. It is inspiring to hear the words of people whose...

Are you known to strike like a thunderbolt when things don't go your way? Are you fortunate enough to have the Midas touch? Have you ever been struck by Cupid's arrow? Classically derived expressions are commonly used in our everyday language, yet many of us have little knowledge of the Greek...