In this unique and entertaining collection of articles, a noted scholar and compiler of key works of reference reflects on the nature of language, the art of lexicography and the breath-taking developments in communication, the media and information technology in the late twentieth century.

This book ranges widely over three main linked subjects:

- Language at large and in particular English, the most widely used language in the history of the world
- The art and study of dictionaries and reference science, embracing all past, present and potential reference materials-from the OED to the Yellow Pages
- The processes through which communication, information and knowledge have evolved-from cave art to the personal computer.