Samuel Johnson
Samuel Johnson
Samuel Johnson, often referred to as Dr Johnson, was an English writer who made lasting contributions to English literature as a poet, essayist, moralist, literary critic, biographer, editor and lexicographer. Johnson was a devout Anglican and committed Tory, and has been described as "arguably the most distinguished man of letters in English history". He is also the subject of "the most famous single biographical work in the whole of literature," James Boswell's Life of Samuel Johnson...
NationalityEnglish
ProfessionNon-Fiction Author
Date of Birth18 September 1709
Hope is necessary in every condition.
Shame arises from the fear of men, conscience from the fear of God.
Pleasure is very seldom found where it is sought. Our brightest blazes are commonly kindled by unexpected sparks.
Power is not sufficient evidence of truth.
It is a most mortifying reflection for a man to consider what he has done, compared to what he might have done.
Pride is a vice, which pride itself inclines every man to find in others, and to overlook in himself
It is advantageous to an author that his book should be attacked as well as praised. Fame is a shuttlecock. If it be struck at one end of the room, it will soon fall to the ground. To keep it up, it must be struck at both ends.
Nature never gives everything at once.
Revenge is an act of passion; vengeance of justice. Injuries are revenged; crimes are avenged.
When once the forms of civility are violated, there remains little hope of return to kindness or decency.
It is not from reason and prudence that people marry, but from inclination.
He who waits to do a great deal of good at once will never do anything.
Of the blessings set before you make your choice, and be content.
Without frugality none can be rich, and with it very few would be poor.