"A fool and his words are soon parted," wrote William Shenstone in 1764; one might add that "A wit and his words are rarely collected." Here is the antidote: a dazzling survey of the one-liners, quips, and observations from Ancient Rome, the Bible, and Chaucer right up to "The Simpsons." This book contains more than 5,000 of the very funniest remarks to have appeared on paper since - well, since paper was invented. The lines we all wish we could have said are arranged thematically and cover all aspects of life, from the world we inhabit to the things we eat, drink, and smoke - oh, and the pointlessness of football. The quotations within each theme are placed chronologically to illustrate the evolution of ideas and jokes over the years, and to reveal who "borrowed" from whom. Funny You Should Say That also includes a biography of each author, contextual notes for each quotation, and an index of keywords to help locate the perfect witticism. But do not be over-hasty when you read this book; it is a browser's delight, and should be enjoyed at leisure.