Worth noting that you can still successfully communicate while flouting one or more of the maxims. Sarcasm and irony show that tone and context play largely into understanding as well.
I couldn't agree more re: Norman's book. I wish it had been recommended to me as a linguistics undergrad. He provides such a clear explanation as to how design is a way of solving communication problems over making things look good.
I also run into "Norman doors" at least once a week and always smile when I remember the term.