*commentary*

n.; pl. Commentaries [ L. commentarius, commentarium, note book, commentary: cf. F. commentaire. See Comment, v. i. ] 1. A series of comments or annotations; esp., a book of explanations or expositions on the whole or a part of the Scriptures or of some other work. [ 1913 Webster ]

This letter . . . was published by him with a severe commentary. Hallam. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A brief account of transactions or events written hastily, as if for a memorandum; -- usually in the plural; as, Caesar's Commentaries on the Gallic War. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. A single essay, written or spoken, discussing or explaining a topic, especially regarding a recent event; as, the election report was followed by several commentaries from political analysts. [ PJC ]

4. Something considered as exemplifying or ilustrating a point or opinion; as, the California recall vote is a sad commentary on the frivolous approach of people to politics. [ PJC ]