What does the author mean when he writes word encyclopedia is made up words that talk to each other?

This is a very poetic and imaginative way to describe an encyclopedia! Here's a breakdown of what the author likely means:

* Words that talk to each other: This implies a sense of interconnectedness and relationship between the words within the encyclopedia.

* Example: A word like "evolution" in an encyclopedia entry will likely be linked to other terms like "natural selection," "adaptation," and "Darwin." These words aren't just listed in isolation, but build upon each other to create a larger understanding.

* Made up of words: This emphasizes the fundamental building blocks of the encyclopedia, which are the words themselves.

* Example: Even though an encyclopedia contains complex ideas, it's all built from these basic units.

Overall meaning: The author is using a figurative language to highlight the way an encyclopedia:

* Is a system of interconnected knowledge: Words within the encyclopedia don't stand alone, but instead contribute to a web of information.

* Is constructed from building blocks: The words are the foundation upon which the entire structure of knowledge is built.

This description is a clever way to express the essence of an encyclopedia as a tool for understanding and building knowledge.