A method and cementing composition is provided for sealing a subterranean zone penetrated by a well bore, wherein the cementing composition comprises a mixture of cementitious material, a polymeric cement cohesion additive, and sufficient water to form a slurry. The polymeric cement cohesion additive is a high molecular weight hydroxyethylcellulose. The method comprises placing the cement composition in the subterranean zone and allowing the cement composition to set into a solid mass therein.