ILLUMINATING WIT, INSPIRING WISDOM Dr. Wolfgang Mieder, named "the world's top proverb expert" by Smithsonian magazine, explains that proverbs are crystallized bits of cultural wisdom with several levels of meaning.From every continent, Dr. Mieder has compiled this fascinating treasury, illustrating how universal experiences are expressed through culturally unique and different metaphorical images. This charming gift collection is meant to be read and shared with delight.Illuminating Wit, Inspiring Wisdom is organized alphabetically by key word for quick and easy access to proverbs on hundreds of subjects. Every entry is annotated to identify the national, ethnic, or cultural origin. An extensive bibliography points to the world's literature on proverbs. All the proverbs have been translated into English.