WIST Quotations

Johnson, Samuel -- (Attributed)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

If I were punished for every pun I shed, there would not be left a puny shed of my punnish head.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
(Attributed)

Johnson, Samuel -- (Attributed)

Dave — Fri, 14 Oct 2005 12:28:40 +0000

He who praises everybody, praises nobody.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
(Attributed)

In "Johnsoniana," The European Magazine and London Review (Jan 1785). From an anecdote by George Stevens.

Johnson, Samuel -- (Attributed)

Dave — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 13:39:33 +0000

A man is in general better pleased when he has a good dinner upon his table, than when his wife talks Greek.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
(Attributed)

Quoted in Sir John Hawkins, "Apophthegms, Sentiments, Opinions and Occasional Reflections" (1787-89), in George Birbeck Hill (ed.), Johnsonian Miscellanies, Vol. 2 (1897)

Johnson, Samuel -- (Attributed)

Dave — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:30:24 +0000

It is better a man should be abused than forgotten.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
(Attributed)

Quoted in Hester Lynch Piozzi, The Anecdotes of the Late Samuel Johnson (1786).

Johnson, Samuel -- (Attributed)

Dave — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:57:32 +0000

Abstinence is as easy to me as temperance would be difficult.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
(Attributed)

When urged by Hannah More to have some wine with dinner. Quoted in Mrs. Ellis, A Voice From the Vintage (1843).

Johnson, Samuel -- (Attributed)

Dave — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 12:04:20 +0000

Adversity has ever been considered the state in which a man most easily becomes acquainted with himself, then, especially being free from flatterers.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
(Attributed)

Attributed in Tryon Edwards, A Dictionary of Thoughts (1891).

Johnson, Samuel -- (Attributed)

Dave — Fri, 28 Jun 2013 13:00:54 +0000

Dictionaries are like watches; the worst is better than none, and the best cannot be expected to go quite true.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
(Attributed)

In Hester Thrale Piozzi, Anecdotes of Samuel Johnson (1786).

Johnson, Samuel -- (Spurious)

Dave — Fri, 08 Aug 2014 16:24:25 +0000

Prejudice, not being founded on reason, cannot be removed by argument.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
(Spurious)
(Source)

Frequently attributed without citation, and not found in Johnson's works. However, the phrase can be found in other contexts:

"This objection on the score of color is founded upon prejudice, and hence cannot be removed by argument, for prejudice is blind and listens not to reason." -- Rep. Godlove S. Orth of Indiana, speech before the House of Representatives (5 Apr 1869) on the question of admitting the Dominican Republic as a US territory.
"This persuasion of the power of the priest is, as we have said, a traditional prejudice; it is not founded on any reasons or proofs addressed to the understanding, and therefore it cannot be removed by argument." -- John Eliot Howard, The Island of the Saints (1855), quoting from the Achill Herald (Jun 1855).

Johnson, Samuel -- A Dictionary of the English Language (1755)

Dave — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:52:01 +0000

LEXICOGRAPHER. n. s. A writer of dictionaries; a harmless drudge, that busies himself in tracing the original, and detailing the signification of words.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
A Dictionary of the English Language (1755)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- A Dictionary of the English Language, Preface (1755)

Dave — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 13:06:30 +0000

Every quotation contributes something to the stability or enlargement of the language.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
A Dictionary of the English Language, Preface (1755)
(Source)

On use of quotations in his dictionary to illustrate and explore the meanings of words.

Johnson, Samuel -- A Dictionary of the English Language, Preface (1755)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Every other author may aspire to praise; the lexicographer can only hope to escape reproach, and even this negative recompense has been yet granted to very few.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
A Dictionary of the English Language, Preface (1755)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Milton” (1781)

Dave — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:16:06 +0000

If nothing may be published but what civil authority shall have previously approved, power must always be the standard of truth.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Milton” (1781)
(Source)

Also known as Lives of English Poets and Lives of the Poets.

In the full passage, Johnson notes the dangers of both a censored and uncensored press.

Johnson, Samuel -- Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Milton” (1781)

Dave — Fri, 03 May 2013 12:07:33 +0000

Paradise Lost is one of the books which the reader admires and lays down, and forgets to take up again. None ever wished it longer than it is.

Johnson, Samuel -- Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Milton” (1781)

Dave — Fri, 10 May 2013 13:31:13 +0000

To be of no church is dangerous. Religion, of which the rewards are distant, and which is animated only by faith and hope, will glide by degrees out of the mind unless it be invigorated and reimpressed by external ordinances, by stated calls to worship, and the salutary influence of example.

Johnson, Samuel -- Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Milton” (1781)

Dave — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 21:46:05 +0000

It has been observed, that they who most loudly clamour for liberty do not most liberally grant it. What we know of Milton’s character, in domestic relations, is, that he was severe and arbitrary. His family consisted of women; and there appears in his books something like a Turkish contempt of females, as subordinate and inferior beings. That his own daughters might not break the ranks, he suffered them to be depressed by a mean and penurious education. He thought woman made only for obedience, and man only for rebellion.

Johnson, Samuel -- Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Pope” (1781)

Dave — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 10:56:06 +0000

Self-confidence is the first requisite to great undertakings.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Pope” (1781)
(Source)

Also known as Lives of English Poets and Lives of the Poets.

Johnson, Samuel -- Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Pope” (1781)

Dave — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 17:38:35 +0000

Those indeed who attain any excellence, commonly spend life in one pursuit; for excellence is not often gained upon easier terms.

Johnson, Samuel -- Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Pope” (1781)

Dave — Fri, 01 Aug 2014 13:12:28 +0000

The misery of man proceeds not from any single crush of overwhelming evil, but from small vexations continually repeated.

Johnson, Samuel -- Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets, “Pope” (1781)

Dave — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 18:47:23 +0000

The distance is commonly very great between actual performances and speculative possibility. It is natural to suppose, that as much as has been done to-day may be done to-morrow; but on the morrow some difficulty emerges, or some external impediment obstructs. Indolence, interruption, business, and pleasure, all take their turns of retardation; and every long work is lengthened by a thousand causes that can, and ten thousand that cannot, be recounted. Perhaps no extensive and multifarious performance was ever effected within the term originally fixed in the undertaker’s mind. He that runs against Time, has an antagonist not subject to casualties.

Johnson, Samuel -- Prayers and Meditations, 1770-06-01 (1785)

Dave — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 13:13:02 +0000

Every man naturally persuades himself that he can keep his resolutions, nor is he convinced of his imbecility but by length of time and frequency of experiment. This opinion of our own constancy is so prevalent, that we always despise him who suffers his general and settled purpose to be overpowered by an occasional desire.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Prayers and Meditations, 1770-06-01 (1785)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Prayers and Meditations, 1784-08-12, “Against Inquisitive and Perplexing Thoughts (1785)

Dave — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 14:24:01 +0000

This world, where much is to be done and little to be known.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Prayers and Meditations, 1784-08-12, “Against Inquisitive and Perplexing Thoughts (1785)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 4 (1759)

Dave — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 12:49:35 +0000

That what cannot be repaired is not to be regretted.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 4 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 6 (1759)

Dave — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 10:34:00 +0000

Nothing will ever be attempted, if all possible objections must be first overcome.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 6 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 6 (1759)

Dave — Fri, 21 Feb 2014 17:06:20 +0000

All skill ought to be exerted for universal good; every man has owed much to others, and ought to repay the kindness that he has received.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 6 (1759)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 13 (1759)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Great works are performed, not by strength, but by perseverance. Yonder palace was raised by single stones, yet you see its height and spaciousness. He that shall walk with vigor three hours a day will pass in seven years a space equal to the circumference of the globe.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 13 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 13 (1759)

Dave — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:59:22 +0000

Man is not weak; knowledge is more than equivalent to force. The master of mechanicks laughs at strength.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 13 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 13 (1759)

Dave — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 14:18:50 +0000

Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 13 (1759)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 18 (1759)

Dave — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 14:01:57 +0000

Be not too hasty to trust or to admire the teachers of morality; they discourse like angels, but they love like men.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 18 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 26 (1759)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 18:00:00 +0000

I live in the crowd of jollity, not so much to enjoy company as to shun myself.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 26 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 26 (1759)

Dave — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:21:33 +0000

Marriage has many pains, but celibacy has no pleasures.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 26 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 29 (1759)

Dave — Fri, 15 Nov 2013 15:41:29 +0000

He that attempts to change the course of his own life very often labors in vain; and how shall we do that for others, which we are seldom able to do for ourselves?

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 29 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 30 (1759)

Dave — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:13:11 +0000

Ignorance, when it is voluntary, is criminal.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 30 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 30 (1759)

Dave — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:09:18 +0000

Example is always more efficacious than precept.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 30 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 41 (1759)

Dave — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:14:18 +0000

Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 41 (1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 46 (1759)

Dave — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 22:53:49 +0000

No disease of the imagination is so difficult to cure, as that which is complicated with the dread of guilt: fancy and conscience then act interchangeably upon us, and so often shift their places, that the illusions of one are not distinguished from the dictates of the other.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 46 (1759)
(Source)

Sometimes attributed to E. M. Forster, as he transcribed the words in his Commonplace Book.

Johnson, Samuel -- The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 47 (1759)

Dave — Fri, 11 Jul 2014 12:27:40 +0000

Such is the state of life, that none are happy but by the anticipation of change: the change itself is nothing; when we have made it, the next wish is to change again. The world is not yet exhausted; let me see something tomorrow which I never saw before.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia, ch. 47 (1759)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Idler, #58 (26 May 1759)

Dave — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 12:14:34 +0000

It is seldom that we find either men or places such as we expect them.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Idler, #58 (26 May 1759)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Life of Sir Thomas Browne (1756)

Dave — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 13:44:07 +0000

The reciprocal civility of authors is one of the most risible scenes in the farce of life.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Life of Sir Thomas Browne (1756)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Plays of William Shakespeare, “Cymbeline” (1765)

Dave — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 12:08:53 +0000

No state can be more destitute than that of a him who, when the delites of sense forsake him, has no pleasures of the mind.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Plays of William Shakespeare, “Cymbeline” (1765)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Plays of William Shakespeare, “Macbeth” (1765)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

The greatest part of mankind have no other reason for their opinions than that they are in fashion.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Plays of William Shakespeare, “Macbeth” (1765)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Plays of William Shakespeare, Preface (1765)

Dave — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 14:08:17 +0000

He that tries to recommend [Shakespeare] by select quotations will succeed like the pedant in Hierocles, who, when he offered his house to sale, carried a brick in his pocket as a specimen.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Plays of William Shakespeare, Preface (1765)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Plays of William Shakespeare, Preface (1765)

Dave — Fri, 13 Jun 2014 13:04:15 +0000

While an author is yet living we estimate his powers by his worst performance, and when he is dead we rate them by his best.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Plays of William Shakespeare, Preface (1765)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #2 (24 Mar 1750)

Dave — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 15:23:11 +0000

The mind is never satisfied with the objects immediately before it, but is always breaking away from the present moment, and losing itself in schemes of future felicity …. The natural flights of the human mind are not from pleasure to pleasure, but from hope to hope.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #2 (24 Mar 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #4 (31 Mar 1750)

Dave — Fri, 30 Aug 2013 19:39:15 +0000

That observation which is called knowledge of the world will be found much more frequently to make men cunning than good.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #4 (31 Mar 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #6 (7 Apr 1750)

Dave — Fri, 30 Sep 2016 00:25:36 +0000

He who has so little knowledge of human nature, as to seek happiness by changing any thing but his own dispositions, will waste his life in fruitless efforts, and multiply the griefs which he purposes to remove.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #6 (7 Apr 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #13 (1 May 1750)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

The vanity of being trusted with a secret is generally one of the chief motives to disclose it; for however absurd it may be thought to boast an honor by an act with shows that it was conferred without merit, yet most men seem rather inclined to confess the want of virtue than of importance, and more willingly show their influence, though at the expense of their probity, than glide through life with no other pleasure than the private consciousness of fidelity; which, while it is preserved, must be without praise, except from the single person who tries and knows it.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #13 (1 May 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #14 (5 May 1750)

Dave — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 13:24:34 +0000

A transition from an author’s book to his conversation, is too often like an entrance into a large city, after a distant prospect. Remotely, we see nothing but spires of temples and turrets of palaces, and imagine it the residence of splendour, grandeur and magnificence; but when we have passed the gates, we find it perplexed with narrow passages, disgraced with despicable cottages, embarrassed with obstructions, and clouded with smoke.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #14 (5 May 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #14 (5 May 1784)

Dave — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 21:18:12 +0000

A transition from an author’s book to his conversation is too often like an entrance into a large city after a distant prospect. Remotely, we see nothing but spires of temples, and turrets of palaces, and imagine it the residence of splendor, grandeur, and magnificence; but when we have passed the gates, we find it perplexed with narrow passages, disgraced with despicable cottages, embarrassed with obstructions, and clouded with smoke.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #14 (5 May 1784)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #47 (28 Aug 1750)

Dave — Fri, 18 Jul 2014 15:00:12 +0000

Sorrow is a kind of rust of the soul, which every new idea contributes in its passage to scour away. It is the putrefaction of stagnant life, and is remedied by exercise and motion.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #47 (28 Aug 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #48 (1 Sep 1750)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Those who do not feel pain seldom think that it is felt.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #48 (1 Sep 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #48 (1 Sep 1750)

Dave — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 13:20:59 +0000

Disease generally begins that equality which death completes.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #48 (1 Sep 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #50 (25 Sep 1750)

Dave — Mon, 20 Feb 2017 20:09:39 +0000

When once the forms of civility are violated, there remains little hope of return to kindness or decency.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #50 (25 Sep 1750)
(Source)

Couched as a letter to the paper from a woman.

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #50 (8 Sep 1750)

Dave — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 12:44:56 +0000

He that would pass the latter part of life with honour and decency, must, when he is young, consider that he shall one day be old; and remember, when he is old, that he has once been young.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #50 (8 Sep 1750)
(Source)

Often misattributed to Joseph Addison.

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #50 (8 Sep 1750)

Dave — Fri, 16 Aug 2013 12:27:11 +0000

It is not sufficiently considered how much he assumes who dares to claim the privilege of complaining; for as every man has, in his own opinion, a full share of the miseries of life, he is inclined to consider all clamorous uneasiness as a proof of impatience rather than of affliction, and to ask, what merit has this man to show, by which he has acquired a right to repine at the distributions of nature? Or, why does he imagine that exemptions should be granted him from the general condition of man? We find ourselves excited rather to captiousness than pity, and, instead of being in haste to sooth his complaints by sympathy and tenderness, we inquire whether the pain be proportionate to the lamentation; and whether, supposing the affliction real, it is not the effect of vice and folly, rather than calamity?

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #50 (8 Sep 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #50 (8 Sep 1750)

Dave — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 03:44:03 +0000

Every old man complains of the growing depravity of the world, of the petulance and insolence of the rising generation. He recounts the decency and regularity of former times, and celebrates the discipline and sobriety of the age in which his youth was passed; a happy age which is now no more to be expected, since confusion has broken in upon the world, and thrown down all the boundaries of civility and reverence.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #50 (8 Sep 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #59 (9 Oct 1750)

Dave — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 11:47:13 +0000

To hear complaints with patience, even when complaints are vain, is one of the duties of friendship.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #59 (9 Oct 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #64 (27 Oct 1750)

Dave — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 14:27:09 +0000

Friendship may well deserve the sacrifice of pleasure, though not of conscience.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #64 (27 Oct 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #68 (10 Nov 1750)

Dave — Fri, 13 Sep 2013 13:10:17 +0000

The highest panegyric, therefore, that private virtue can receive, is the praise of servants.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #68 (10 Nov 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #76 (8 Dec 1750)

Dave — Fri, 12 Jul 2013 12:45:08 +0000

Every whisper of infamy is industriously circulated, every hint of suspicion eagerly improved, and every failure of conduct joyfully published by those whose interest it is that the eye and voice of the public should be employed on any rather than themselves.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #76 (8 Dec 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #79 (18 Dec 1750)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

It is better to suffer wrong than to do it, and happier to be sometimes cheated than not to trust.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #79 (18 Dec 1750)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #86 (12 Jan 1751)

Dave — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 12:00:59 +0000

There are, in every age, new errors to be rectified, and new prejudices to be opposed.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #86 (12 Jan 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, # 96 (16 Feb 1751)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

In order that all men may be taught to speak truth, it is necessary that all likewise should learn to hear it.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, # 96 (16 Feb 1751)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #103 (12 Mar 1751)

Dave — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:11 +0000

Curiosity is one of the most permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous intellect.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #103 (12 Mar 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #117 (30 Apr 1751)

Dave — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 12:46:06 +0000

Nothing has more retarded the advancement of learning than the disposition of vulgar minds to ridicule and vilify what they cannot comprehend.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #117 (30 Apr 1751)
(Source)

Presented as a letter from "Hypertatus"

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #121 (14 May 1751)

Dave — Fri, 31 Jan 2014 12:56:53 +0000

It is very natural for young men to be vehement, acrimonious and severe. For as they seldom comprehend at once all the consequences of a position, or perceive the difficulties by which cooler and more experienced reasoners are restrained from confidence, they form their conclusions with great precipitance. Seeing nothing that can darken or embarrass the question, they expect to find their own opinion universally prevalent, and are inclined to impute uncertainty and hesitation to want of honesty, rather than of knowledge.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #121 (14 May 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #135 (2 Jul 1751)

Dave — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 16:09:17 +0000

Almost all absurdity of conduct arises from the imitation of those whom we cannot resemble.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #135 (2 Jul 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #136 (6 Jul 1751)

Dave — Wed, 24 Jun 2015 13:21:37 +0000

Praise, like gold and diamonds, owes its value only to its scarcity.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #136 (6 Jul 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #150 (24 Aug 1751)

Dave — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 20:15:44 +0000

That fortitude which has encountered no dangers, that prudence which has surmounted no difficulties, that integrity which has been attacked by no temptations, can at best be considered but as gold not yet brought to the test, of which therefore the true value cannot be assigned.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #150 (24 Aug 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #155 (10 Sep 1751)

Dave — Mon, 24 May 2010 12:49:37 +0000

The mischief of flattery is not that it persuades any man that he is what he is not, but that it suppresses the influence of honest ambition, by raising an opinion that honor may be gained without the toil of merit.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #155 (10 Sep 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #155 (10 Sep 1751)

Dave — Fri, 23 May 2014 18:10:53 +0000

Self-love is often rather arrogant than blind; it does not hide our faults from ourselves, but persuades us that they escape the notice of others, and disposes us to resent censures lest we should confess them to be just.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #155 (10 Sep 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #159 (24 Sep 1751)

Dave — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 16:22:14 +0000

But the truth is, that no man is much regarded by the rest of the world, except where the interest of others is involved in his fortune. The common employments or pleasures of life, love or opposition, loss or gain, keep almost every mind in perpetual agitation. If any man would consider how little he dwells upon the condition of others, he would learn how little the attention of others is attracted by himself.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #159 (24 Sep 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #175 (19 Nov 1751)

Dave — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 10:50:10 +0000

But, perhaps, the excellence of aphorisms consists not so much in the expression of some rare and abstruse sentiment, as in the comprehension of some obvious and useful truths in a few words. We frequently fall into error and folly, not because the true principles of actions are not not known, but because, for a time, they are not remembered; and he may, therefore, be justly numbered among the benefactors of mankind, who contracts the great rules of life into short sentences, that may be easily impressed on the memory, and taught by frequent recollection to recur habitually to the mind.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #175 (19 Nov 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #175 (19 Nov 1751)

Dave — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 12:37:23 +0000

What are all the records of history, but narratives of successive villainies, of treasons and usurpations, massacres and wars?

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #175 (19 Nov 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #183 (Dec 1751)

Dave — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 16:25:22 +0000

Envy […] desires not so much its own happiness as another’s misery.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #183 (Dec 1751)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- The Rambler, #189 (7 Jan 1752)

Dave — Mon, 18 Aug 2014 12:12:10 +0000

Almost every man wastes part of his life in attempts to display qualities which he does not possess, and to gain applause which he cannot keep.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
The Rambler, #189 (7 Jan 1752)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment

Dave — Tue, 31 Dec 2013 17:27:07 +0000

It is a mortifying reflection for any man to consider what he has done with what he might have done.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment

Quoted by Rev. Dr. Maxwell (1770), in James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791).

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment

Dave — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 13:33:44 +0000

Men know that women are an over-match for them, and therefore they choose the weakest or most ignorant. If they did not think so, they never could be afraid of women knowing as much as themselves.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment

In James Boswell, Tour to the Hebrides (1785).

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1 Jul 1763)

Dave — Sat, 25 Feb 2017 00:24:34 +0000

[Dr. John] Campbell is a good man, a pious man. I am afraid he has not been in the inside of a church for many years; but he never passes a church without
pulling off his hat. This shews that he has good principles.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1 Jul 1763)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791).

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (10 Apr 1776)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

While grief is fresh, every attempt to divert only irritates. You must wait till grief be digested, and then amusement will dissipate the remains of it.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (10 Apr 1776)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (10 Apr 1778)

Dave — Fri, 22 Nov 2013 14:30:17 +0000

Every man thinks meanly of himself for not having been a soldier, or not having been at sea.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (10 Apr 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (11 Apr 1776)

Dave — Thu, 19 May 2011 12:03:49 +0000

A man who has not been in Italy is always conscious of an inferiority.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (11 Apr 1776)

In J. Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (11 Jun 1784)

Dave — Fri, 24 Jan 2014 12:58:35 +0000

Courage is a quality so necessary for maintaining virtue that it is always respected, even when it is associated with vice.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (11 Jun 1784)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (11-19 Nov 1793), in James Boswell, Journey of a Tour to the Hebrides (1785)

Dave — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 21:45:13 +0000

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.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (11-19 Nov 1793), in James Boswell, Journey of a Tour to the Hebrides (1785)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (12 Jul 1763)

Dave — Fri, 28 Feb 2014 13:53:34 +0000

Sir, there is one Mrs. Macaulay in this town, a great republican. One day when I was at her house, I put on a very grave countenance, and said to her, “Madam, I am now become a convert to your way of thinking. I am convinced that all mankind are upon an equal footing; and to give you an unquestionable proof, Madam, that I am in earnest, here is a very sensible, civil, well-behaved fellow-citizen, your footman; I desire that he may be allowed to sit down and dine with us.” I thus, Sir, shewed her the absurdity of the levelling doctrine. She has never liked me since. Sir, your levellers wish to level down as far as themselves; but they cannot bear levelling up to themselves.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (12 Jul 1763)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (13 Jun 1784)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

I deny the lawfulness of telling a lie to a sick man for fear of alarming him; you have no business with consequences, you are to tell the truth.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (13 Jun 1784)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (14 Apr 1775)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

All knowledge is of itself of some value. There is nothing so minute or inconsiderable that I would not rather know it than not.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (14 Apr 1775)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (14 Apr 1775)

Dave — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:04:29 +0000

This is the happiest conversation, where there is no competition, no vanity, but a calm, quiet interchange of sentiments.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (14 Apr 1775)

In James Boswell The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (14 Apr 1775)

Dave — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 18:49:31 +0000

Hell is paved with good intentions.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (14 Apr 1775)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791). This is noted as a "proverbial sentence" even at that time. John Ray, in 1670, cited as a proverb, "Hell is paved with good intentions." Note that "The road to Hell ..." is not part of the quotation.

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (14 Jul 1763)

Dave — Fri, 02 Aug 2013 20:25:27 +0000

A man ought to read just as inclination leads him; for what he reads as a task will do him little good.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (14 Jul 1763)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (14 Sep 1773)

Dave — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 17:44:58 +0000

I have, all my life long, been lying till noon; yet I tell all young men, and tell them with great sincerity, that nobody who does not rise early will ever do any good.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (14 Sep 1773)

In James Boswell, Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides (1786)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (14 Sep 1773), in James Boswell, Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides (1785)

Dave — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 12:41:23 +0000

No man practises so well as he writes. I have, all my life long, been lying till noon; yet I tell all young men, and tell them with great sincerity, that nobody who does not rise early will ever do any good.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (14 Sep 1773), in James Boswell, Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides (1785)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (15 Apr 1778)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Pleasure of itself is not a vice.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (15 Apr 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (15 Apr 1778)

Dave — Fri, 13 Dec 2013 13:03:06 +0000

All theory is against the freedom of the will; all experience for it.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (15 Apr 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (15 Aug 1773)

Dave — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 12:30:44 +0000

If lawyers were to undertake no causes till they were sure they were just, a man might be precluded altogether from a trial of his claim, though, were it judicially examined, it might be found a very just claim.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (15 Aug 1773)

In James Boswell, Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides (1786)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (15 Aug 1773)

Dave — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 12:01:44 +0000

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (15 Aug 1773)

In James Boswell, Tour to the Hebrides (1786)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (15 Feb 1766)

Dave — Fri, 31 May 2013 12:20:25 +0000

We cannot prove any man’s intention to be bad. You may shoot a man through the head, and say you intended to miss him; but the Judge will order you to be hanged.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (15 Feb 1766)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791).

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (15 Feb 1766)

Dave — Fri, 05 Jul 2013 15:01:12 +0000

It is our first duty to serve society, and, after we have done that, we may attend wholly to the salvation of our own souls.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (15 Feb 1766)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (15 Sep 1777)

Dave — Fri, 27 Sep 2013 12:26:34 +0000

Men hate more steadily than they love.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (15 Sep 1777)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (17 Apr 1778)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

It is better to live rich, than to die rich.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (17 Apr 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1763-07-14)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

But if he does really think that there is no distinction between virtue and vice, why, Sir, when he leaves our houses let us count our spoons.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1763-07-14)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson, Vol. 1: 1709-1765 (1791). Regarding an unnamed "impudent fellow from Scotland" Boswell told him of.

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1763)

Dave — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 11:45:43 +0000

Sir, I think all Christians, whether Papists or Protestants, agree in the essential articles, and that their differences are trivial, and rather political than religious.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1763)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1770)

Dave — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:07:29 +0000

A decent provision for the poor is the true test of civilization.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1770)
(Source)

Quoted by Rev. Dr. Maxwell. In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791).

See Dostoyevsky, Buck.

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1770)

Dave — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:00:10 +0000

That fellow seems to me to possess but one idea, and that is a wrong one.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1770)

Quoting Rev. Dr. Maxwell (1770), in reference to a "dull, tiresome" acquaintance.In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1770)

Dave — Fri, 18 Oct 2013 16:50:34 +0000

That fellow seems to me to possess but one idea, and that is a wrong one.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1770)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791). Attributed by Rev. Dr. Maxwell while Boswell was out of town. Johnson was "speaking of a dull tiresome fellow, whom he chanced to meet."

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1775-04-07)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1775-04-07)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791). The full quote:

Patriotism having become one of our topicks, Johnson suddenly uttered, in a strong determined tone, an apophthegm, at which many will start: "Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel." But let it be considered, that he did not mean a real and generous love of our country, but that pretended patriotism which so many, in all ages and countries, have made a cloak of self-interest.

Ambrose Bierce wrote in his Devil's Dictonary, under "Patriotism," "In Dr. Johnson's famous dictionary patriotism is defined as the last resort of a scoundrel. With all due respect to an enlightened but inferior lexicographer I beg to submit that it is the first."

The saying is famous and noteworthy enough that many others have riffed on it beyond Bierce: see Wilde (and again), Roosevelt, Broun, Asimov, Lewis, and Ehrenreich.

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1777-09-19)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Depend upon it, Sir, when a man knows he is to be hanged in a fortnight, it concentrates his mind wonderfully.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1777-09-19)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1778-03-30) to Mrs. Thrale, in James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Dave — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 17:55:28 +0000

It is more from carelessness about truth than from intentional lying that there is so much falsehood in the world.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1778-03-30) to Mrs. Thrale, in James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)
(Source)

During the week of 30 March - 3 April.

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1780)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

The applause of a single human being is of great consequence.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1780)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1780)

Dave — Fri, 21 Mar 2014 12:52:12 +0000

Depend upon it if a man talks of his misfortunes there is something in them that is not disagreeable to him; for where there is nothing but pure misery there never is any recourse to the mention of it.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1780)
(Source)

In Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson, ch. 51 "1780" (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (1783)

Dave — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 14:31:56 +0000

As I know more of mankind, I expect less of them, and am ready now to call a man a good man, upon easier terms than I was formerly.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (1783)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (18 Apr 1775)

Dave — Tue, 10 May 2011 12:39:09 +0000

Knowledge is of two kinds. We know a subject ourselves, or we know where we can find information upon it.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (18 Apr 1775)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (18 Apr 1778)

Dave — Fri, 20 Dec 2013 13:20:02 +0000

The insolence of wealth will creep out.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (18 Apr 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (19 Sep 1777)

Dave — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 15:29:14 +0000

If I had no duties, and no reference to futurity, I would spend my life in driving briskly in a post-chaise with a pretty woman.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (19 Sep 1777)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (20 Jul 1768)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Sir, all the arguments which are brought to represent poverty as no evil, shew it to be evidently a great evil. You never find people labouring to convince you that you may live very happily upon a plentiful fortune.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (20 Jul 1768)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (20 Mar 1782)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

To let friendship die away by negligence and silence, is certainly not wise. It is voluntarily to throw away one of the greatest comforts of this weary pilgrimage.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (20 Mar 1782)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (21 Mar 1776)

Dave — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 13:30:56 +0000

There is nothing which has yet been contrived by man by which so much happiness is produced as by a good tavern or inn.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (21 Mar 1776)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (22 Mar 1767)

Dave — Thu, 24 Dec 2015 18:40:17 +0000

The Church does not superstitiously observe days, merely as days, but as memorials of important facts. Christmas might be kept as well upon one day of the year as another; but there should be a stated day for commemorating the birth of our Savior, because there is danger that what may be done on any day, will be neglected.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (22 Mar 1767)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (22 Mar 1776)

Dave — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 14:04:08 +0000

Marriage is the best state for man in general; and every man is a worse man, in proportion as he is unfit for the married state.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (22 Mar 1776)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (22 Sep 1777)

Dave — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 14:48:20 +0000

Talking of the danger of being mortified by rejection, when making approaches to the acquaintance of the great, I observed, “I am, however, generally for trying, ‘Nothing venture, nothing have.'” JOHNSON. “Very true, sir; but I have always been more afraid of failing, than hopeful of success.”

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (22 Sep 1777)
(Source)

In Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791) See Heywood.

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (26 Mar 1779)

Dave — Fri, 27 Dec 2013 22:39:35 +0000

I would rather be attacked than unnoticed. For the worst thing you can do to an author is to be silent as to his works. An assault upon a town is a bad thing; but starving it is still worse.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (26 Mar 1779)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (26 Oct 1769)

Dave — Fri, 11 Oct 2013 11:58:41 +0000

It matters not how a man dies, but how he lives. The act of dying is not of importance, it lasts so short a time.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (26 Oct 1769)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (28 Apr 1778)

Dave — Fri, 06 Dec 2013 13:55:15 +0000

Wine makes a man better pleased with himself. I do not say that it makes him more pleasing to others. … This is one of the disadvantages of wine, it makes a man mistake words for thoughts.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (28 Apr 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (28 Apr 1778)

Dave — Fri, 18 Apr 2014 15:57:01 +0000

Wine gives a man nothing. It neither gives him knowledge nor wit; it only animates a man, and enables him to bring out what a dread of the company has repressed. It only puts in motion what had been locked up in frost.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (28 Apr 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (3 Apr 1775)

Dave — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 12:55:51 +0000

Every man who attacks my belief, diminishes in some degree my confidence in it, and therefore makes me uneasy; and I am angry with him who makes me uneasy.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (3 Apr 1775)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (3 Apr 1776)

Dave — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 10:43:06 +0000

Every man who attacks my belief diminishes in some degree my confidence in it, and therefore makes me uneasy; and I am angry with him who makes me uneasy.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (3 Apr 1776)

Quoted in Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (3 Apr 1776)

Dave — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 14:05:08 +0000

If a madman were to come into this room with a stick in his hand, no doubt we should pity the state of his mind; but our primary consideration would be to take care of ourselves. We should knock him down first, and pity him afterwards.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (3 Apr 1776)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (31 Mar 1778)

Dave — Wed, 27 Nov 2013 13:01:45 +0000

It is more from carelessness about truth than from intentional lying, that there is so much falsehood in the world.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (31 Mar 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (4 Jun 1781)

Dave — Fri, 10 Jan 2014 14:23:15 +0000

A jest breaks no bones.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (4 Jun 1781)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (5 Apr 1775), in James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Whereas, Sir, you know courage is reckoned the greatest of all virtues; because, unless a man has that virtue, he has no security for preserving any other.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (5 Apr 1775), in James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)
(Source)

See Stevenson (1880), Barrie (1922), Lewis (1942).

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (5 Apr 1776)

Dave — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 12:01:41 +0000

No man but a blockhead ever wrote except for money.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (5 Apr 1776)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (5 Oct 1773)

Dave — Mon, 26 May 2008 12:16:12 +0000

A cucumber should be well sliced, and dressed with pepper and vinegar, and then thrown out, as good for nothing.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (5 Oct 1773)

In James Boswell, Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides (1786). Given as a common saying among doctors.

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (6 Aug 1763)

Dave — Fri, 04 Oct 2013 15:44:00 +0000

We stood talking for some time together of Bishop Berkeley’s ingenious sophistry to prove the non-existence of matter, and that every thing in the universe is merely ideal. I observed, that though we are satisfied his doctrine is not true, it is impossible to refute it. I shall never forget the alacrity with which Johnson answered, striking his foot with mighty force against a large stone, till he rebounded from it, “I refute it thus.”

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (6 Aug 1763)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791).

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (7 Dec 1782)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Poverty is a great enemy to human happiness; it certainly destroys liberty, and it makes some virtues impracticable and others extremely difficult.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (7 Dec 1782)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (9 Apr 1778)

Dave — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 14:02:24 +0000

It is a man’s own fault, it is from want of use, if his mind grows torpid in old age.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (9 Apr 1778)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (9 Jul 1763)

Dave — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 14:08:51 +0000

Idleness is a disease which must be combated; but I would not advise a rigid adherence to a particular plan of study. I myself have never persisted in any plan for two days together. A man ought to read just as inclination leads him: for what he reads as a task will do him little good. A young man should read five hours in a day, and so may acquire a great deal of knowledge.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (9 Jul 1763)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (Mar 1750)

Dave — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 15:01:34 +0000

A man may write at any time, if he will set himself doggedly to it.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (Mar 1750)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (May 1776)

Dave — Fri, 08 Nov 2013 13:24:05 +0000

Life is a progress from want to want, not from enjoyment to enjoyment.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (May 1776)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment (Spring 1768)

Dave — Fri, 24 May 2013 16:27:56 +0000

BOSWELL. But what do you think of supporting a cause which you know to be bad?
JOHNSON. “Sir, you do not know it to be good or bad till the Judge determines it. … It is his business to judge; and you are not to be confident in your own opinion that the cause is bad, but to say all you can for your client, and then hear the Judge’s opinion.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment (Spring 1768)

On being a lawyer. In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment to George Stevens

Dave — Fri, 30 May 2014 12:47:11 +0000

There are few things that we so unwillingly give up, even in advanced age, as the supposition that we still have the power of ingratiating ourselves with the fair sex.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment to George Stevens

In "Johnsoniana," The European Magazine and London Review (Jan 1785). From an anecdote by George Stevens.

Johnson, Samuel -- Comment to Joshua Reynolds (1755)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

If a man does not make new acquaintance as he advances through life, he will soon find himself left alone. A man, Sir, should keep his friendship in constant repair.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Comment to Joshua Reynolds (1755)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1750-03-24), The Rambler, No. 2

Dave — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 14:12:53 +0000

Men more frequently require to be reminded than informed.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1750-03-24), The Rambler, No. 2
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-04-10), The Adventurer, No. 45

Dave — Mon, 21 May 2012 12:46:46 +0000

Power is always gradually stealing away from the many to the few because the few are more vigilant and consistent; it still contracts to a smaller number, till in time it centres in a single person.
Thus all the forms of governments instituted among mankind, perpetually tend towards monarchy; and power, however diffused through the whole community is, by negligence or corruption, commotion or distress, reposed at last in the chief magistrate.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-04-10), The Adventurer, No. 45
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-06-26), The Adventurer, No. 67

Dave — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:47:42 +0000

Thus it comes to pass, that our desires always increase with our possessions; the knowledge that something remains yet unenjoyed, impairs our enjoyment of the good before us.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-06-26), The Adventurer, No. 67
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-06-26), The Adventurer, No. 67

Dave — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 21:32:34 +0000

That familiarity produces neglect, has been long observed. The effect of all external objects, however great or splendid, ceases with their novelty; the courtier stands without emotion in the royal presence; the rustick tramples under his foot the beauties of the spring with little attention to their colours or their fragrance; and the inhabitant of the coast darts his eye upon the immense diffusion of waters, without awe, wonder, or terrour.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-06-26), The Adventurer, No. 67
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-06-26), The Adventurer, No. 67

Dave — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:53:08 +0000

Happiness is enjoyed only in proportion as it is known; and such is the state or folly of man, that it is known only by experience of its contrary: we who have long lived amidst the conveniencies of a town immensely populous, have scarce an idea of a place where desire cannot be gratified by money. In order to have a just sense of this artificial plenty, it is necessary to have passed some time in a distant colony, or those parts of our island which are thinly inhabited: he that has once known how many trades every man in such situations is compelled to exercise, with how much labour the products of nature must be accommodated to human use, how long the loss or defect of any common utensil must be endured, or by what awkward expedients it must be supplied, how far men may wander with money in their hands before any can sell them what they wish to buy, will know how to rate at its proper value the plenty and ease of a great city.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-06-26), The Adventurer, No. 67
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Life affords no higher pleasure than that of surmounting difficulties, passing from one step of success to another, forming new wishes, and seeing them gratified. He that labours in any great or laudable undertaking, has his fatigues first supported by hope, and afterwards rewarded by joy; he is always moving to a certain end, and when he has attained it, an end more distant invites him to a new pursuit.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111

Dave — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 19:42:17 +0000

The evils inseparably annexed to the present condition of man, are so numerous and afflictive, that it has been, from age to age, the task of some to bewail, and of others to solace them; and he, therefore, will be in danger of seeing a common enemy, who shall attempt to depreciate the few pleasures and felicities which nature has allowed us.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111

Dave — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 22:50:41 +0000

Yet it is certain, likewise, that many of our miseries are merely comparative: we are often made unhappy, not by the presence of any real evil, but by the absence of some fictitious good; of something which is not required by any real want of nature, which has not in itself any power of gratification, and which neither reason nor fancy would have prompted us to wish, did we not see it in the possession of others.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111

Dave — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 23:41:53 +0000

When we observe the lives of those whom an ample inheritance has let loose to their own direction, what do we discover that can excite our envy? Their time seems not to pass with much applause from others, or satisfaction to themselves: many squander their exuberance of fortune in luxury and debauchery, and have no other use of money than to inflame their passions, and riot in a wide range of licentiousness; others, less criminal indeed, but surely not much to be praised, lie down to sleep, and rise up to trifle, are employed every morning in finding expedients to rid themselves of the day, chase pleasure through all the places of publick resort, fly from London to Bath, and from Bath to London, without any other reason for changing place, but that they go in quest of company as idle and as vagrant as themselves, always endeavouring to raise some new desire, that they may have something to pursue, to rekindle some hope which they know will be disappointed, changing one amusement for another which a few months will make equally insipid, or sinking into languor and disease for want of something to actuate their bodies or exhilarate their minds.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111

Dave — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 23:44:52 +0000

To strive with difficulties, and to conquer them, is the highest human felicity; the next is, to strive, and deserve to conquer: but he whose life has passed without a contest, and who can boast neither success nor merit, can survey himself only as a useless filler of existence; and if he is content with his own character, must owe his satisfaction to insensibility.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1753-11-27), The Adventurer, No. 111
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126

Dave — Fri, 02 May 2014 12:51:06 +0000

Piety practised in solitude, like the flower that blooms in the desert, may give its fragrance to the winds of Heaven, and delight those unbodied spirits that survey the works of God and the actions of men; but it bestows no assistance upon earthly beings, and however free from taints of impurity, yet wants the sacred splendour of beneficence.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126

Dave — Sat, 03 Jan 2026 20:07:31 +0000

The greater part of the admirers of solitude, as of all other classes of mankind, have no higher or remoter view, than the present gratification of their passions. Of these, some, haughty and impetuous, fly from society only because they cannot bear to repay to others the regard which themselves exact; and think no state of life eligible, but that which places them out of the reach of censure or control, and affords them opportunities of living in a perpetual compliance with their own inclinations, without the necessity of regulating their actions by any other man’s convenience or opinion.
There are others, of minds more delicate and tender, easily offended by every deviation from rectitude, soon disgusted by ignorance or impertinence, and always expecting from the conversation of mankind more elegance, purity and truth, than the mingled mass of life will easily afford. Such men are in haste to retire from grossness, falsehood and brutality; and hope to find in private habitations at least a negative felicity, an exemption from the shocks and perturbations with which publick scenes are continually distressing them.
To neither of these votaries will solitude afford that content, which she has been taught so lavishly to promise. The man of arrogance will quickly discover, that by escaping from his opponents he has lost his flatterers, that greatness is nothing where it is not seen, and power nothing where it cannot be felt: and he, whose faculties are employed in too close an observation of failings and defects, will find his condition very little mended by transferring his attention from others to himself: he will probably soon come back in quest of new objects, and be glad to keep his captiousness employed on any character rather than his own.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126

Dave — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 22:48:02 +0000

But though learning may be conferred by solitude, its application must be attained by general converse. He has learned to no purpose, that is not able to teach; and he will always teach unsuccessfully, who cannot recommend his sentiments by his diction or address.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126

Dave — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 23:37:45 +0000

Even the acquisition of knowledge is often much facilitated by the advantages of society: he that never compares his notions with those of others, readily acquiesces in his first thoughts, and very seldom discovers the objections which may be raised against his opinions; he, therefore, often thinks himself in possession of truth, when he is only fondling an errour long since exploded. He that has neither companions nor rivals in his studies, will always applaud his own progress, and think highly of his performances, because he knows not that others have equalled or excelled him. And I am afraid it may be added, that the student who withdraws himself from the world, will soon feel that ardour extinguished which praise or emulation had enkindled, and take the advantage of secrecy to sleep, rather than to labour.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126

Dave — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:33:10 +0000

But there is a higher order of men so inspired with ardour, and so fortified with resolution, that the world passes before them without influence or regard: these ought to consider themselves as appointed the guardians of mankind: they are placed in an evil world, to exhibit publick examples of good life; and may be said, when they withdraw to solitude, to desert the station which Providence assigned them.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1754-01-19), The Adventurer, No. 126
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1754-03-02), The Adventurer, No. 138

Dave — Fri, 09 May 2014 14:31:22 +0000

Composition is, for the most part, an effort of slow diligence and steady perseverance, to which the mind is dragged by necessity or resolution, and from which the attention is every moment starting to more delightful amusements.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1754-03-02), The Adventurer, No. 138
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1754-03-02), The Adventurer, No. 138

Dave — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 23:17:26 +0000

But when thoughts and words are collected and adjusted, and the whole composition at last concluded, it seldom gratifies the author, when he comes coolly and deliberately to review it, with the hopes which had been excited in the fury of the performance: novelty always captivates the mind; as our thoughts rise fresh upon us, we readily believe them just and original, which, when the pleasure of production is over, we find to be mean and common, or borrowed from the works of others, and supplied by memory rather than invention.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1754-03-02), The Adventurer, No. 138
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1758-06-24), The Idler, No. 11

Dave — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 13:06:08 +0000

It is commonly observed, that when two Englishmen meet, their first talk is of the weather; they are in haste to tell each other, what each must already know, that it is hot or cold, bright or cloudy, windy or calm.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1758-06-24), The Idler, No. 11
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1758-07-15), The Idler, No. 14

Dave — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:16:24 +0000

To put every man in possession of his own time, and rescue the day from the succession of usurpers, is beyond my power, and beyond my hope. Yet perhaps, some stop might be put to this unmerciful persecution, if all would seriously reflect, that whoever pays a visit that is not desired, or talks longer than the hearer is willing to attend, is guilty of an injury which he cannot repair, and takes away that which he cannot give.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1758-07-15), The Idler, No. 14
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1758-08-05), The Idler, No. 17

Dave — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 13:48:10 +0000

To be idle and to be poor have always been reproaches, and therefore every man endeavours with his utmost care to hide his poverty from others, and his idleness from himself.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1758-08-05), The Idler, No. 17
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1758-09-23), The Idler, No. 23

Dave — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 00:22:40 +0000

Friendship, like love, is destroyed by long absence, though it may be increased by short intermissions.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1758-09-23), The Idler, No. 23
(Source)

See Propertius.

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1758-10-07), The Idler, No. 25

Dave — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 12:40:50 +0000

He that applauds him who does not deserve praise, is endeavoring to deceive the public; he that hisses in malice or sport, is an oppressor and a robber.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1758-10-07), The Idler, No. 25
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1758-11-11), The Idler, No. 30

Dave — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 09:48:15 +0000

Among the calamities of war, may be justly numbered the diminution of the love of truth, by the falsehoods which interest dictates, and credulity encourages.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1758-11-11), The Idler, No. 30
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1758-11-11), The Idler, No. 30

Dave — Wed, 20 May 2026 14:48:49 +0000

The desires of man increase with his acquisitions; every step which he advances brings something within his view, which he did not see before, and which, as soon as he sees it, he begins to want. Where necessity ends, curiosity begins; and no sooner are we supplied with every thing that nature can demand, than we sit down to contrive artificial appetites.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1758-11-11), The Idler, No. 30
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-03-17), The Idler, No. 48

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

There is no kind of idleness by which we are so easily seduced as that which dignifies itself by the appearance of business, and by making the loiterer imagine that he has something to do which must not be neglected, keeps in perpetual agitation and hurries him from place to place.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-03-17), The Idler, No. 48
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-05-19), The Idler, No. 57

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Prudence operates on life in the same manner as rules on composition: it produces vigilance rather than elevation, rather prevents loss than procures advantage; and often escapes miscarriages but seldom reaches either power or honour. It quenches that ardour of enterprise by which every thing is done that can claim praise or admiration; and represses that generous temerity which often fails and often succeeds. Rules may obviate faults, but can never confer beauties; and prudence keeps life safe, but does not often make it happy.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-05-19), The Idler, No. 57
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-05-19), The Idler, No. 57

Dave — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 17:56:03 +0000

He is no wise man that will quit a certainty for an uncertainty.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-05-19), The Idler, No. 57
(Source)

Quoting his friend, Sophron (Wisdom, Prudence), who prefers old, tested ways to new ones.

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-05-26), The Idler, No. 58

Dave — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:03:43 +0000

Pleasure is very seldom found where it is sought. Our brightest blazes of gladness are commonly kindled by unexpected sparks. The flowers which scatter their odours from time to time in the paths of life, grow up without culture from seeds scattered by chance.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-05-26), The Idler, No. 58
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-05-26), The Idler, No. 58

Dave — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 12:36:51 +0000

Merriment is always the effect of a sudden impression. The jest which is expected is already destroyed.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-05-26), The Idler, No. 58
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-06-02), The Idler, No. 59

Dave — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:51:54 +0000

Of many writers who filled their age with wonder, and whose names we find celebrated in the books of their contemporaries, the works are now no longer to be seen, or are seen only amidst the lumber of libraries which are seldom visited, where they lie only to show the deceitfulness of hope, and the uncertainty of honour.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-06-02), The Idler, No. 59
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-09-01), The Idler, No. 72

Dave — Tue, 19 May 2015 12:03:10 +0000

The gloomy and the resentful are always found among those who have nothing to do or who do nothing.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-09-01), The Idler, No. 72
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-09-08), The Idler, No. 73

Dave — Fri, 29 May 2026 07:36:12 +0000

That every man would be rich if a wish could obtain riches, is a position which I believe few will contest, at least in a nation like ours, in which commerce has kindled a universal emulation of wealth, and in which money receives all the honours which are the proper right of knowledge and of virtue.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-09-08), The Idler, No. 73
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-09-08), The Idler, No. 73

Dave — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:38:07 +0000

One cause which is not always observed of the insufficiency of riches is, that they very seldom make their owner rich. To be rich is to have more than is desired, and more than is wanted; to have something which may be spent without reluctance, and scattered without care, with which the sudden demands of desire may be gratified, the casual freaks of fancy indulged, the unexpected opportunities of benevolence improved.
Avarice is always poor, but poor by her own fault.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-09-08), The Idler, No. 73
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1759-10-27), The Idler, No. 80

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

We are inclined to believe those whom we do not know because they have never deceived us.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1759-10-27), The Idler, No. 80
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1775), “Taxation No Tyranny”

Dave — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:13:13 +0000

How is it that we hear the loudest yelps for liberty among the drivers of negroes?

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1775), “Taxation No Tyranny”
(Source)

On American (especially Virginian) demands for Independence.

Johnson, Samuel -- Essay (1775), “Taxation No Tyranny”

Dave — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:11:56 +0000

There will always be a part, and always a very large part of every community, that have no care but for themselves, and whose care for themselves reaches little further than impatience of immediate pain, and eagerness for the nearest good.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Essay (1775), “Taxation No Tyranny”
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- In George Birkbeck Hill (ed.), Johnsonian Miscellanies, Vol. 2, “Apophthegms, Sentiments, Opinions, & Occasional Reflections” (1897)

Dave — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 13:01:43 +0000

I never desire to converse with a man who has written more than he has read.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
In George Birkbeck Hill (ed.), Johnsonian Miscellanies, Vol. 2, “Apophthegms, Sentiments, Opinions, & Occasional Reflections” (1897)
(Source)

When asked by someone whether they should introduce the author Hugh Kelly to him.

Taken from John Hawkins (ed.), Works of Samuel Johnson, Vol. 11 (1787-1789), and the sources cited there.

Johnson, Samuel -- In James Boswell, Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides, 15 Aug 1773 (1786)

Dave — Fri, 17 May 2013 12:38:19 +0000

A lawyer has no business with the justice or injustice of the cause which he undertakes, unless his client asks his opinion, and then he is bound to give it honestly. The justice or injustice of the cause is to be decided by the judge. Consider, sir; what is the purpose of courts of justice? It is, that every man may have his cause fairly tried, by men appointed to try causes. A lawyer is not to tell what he knows to be a lie: he is not to produce what he knows to be a false deed; but he is not to usurp the province of the jury and of the judge, and determine what shall be the effect of evidence — what shall be the result of legal argument.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
In James Boswell, Journal of a Tour to the Hebrides, 15 Aug 1773 (1786)

Johnson, Samuel -- In James Boswell, Life of Samuel Johnson, “September 15, 1777” (1791)

Dave — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 12:45:25 +0000

Men hate more steadily than they love; and if I have said something to hurt a man once, I shall not get the better of this by saying many things to please him.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
In James Boswell, Life of Samuel Johnson, “September 15, 1777” (1791)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson “16 April 1779” (1791)

Dave — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 16:26:55 +0000

I am always for getting a boy forward in his learning; for that is a sure good. I would let him at first read any English book which happens to engage his attention; because you have done a great deal when you have brought him to have entertainment from a book. He’ll get better books afterwards.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson “16 April 1779” (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter (1 Jun 1762)

Dave — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 20:48:22 +0000

Hope is itself a species of happiness, and, perhaps, the chief happiness which this world affords: but, like all other pleasures immoderately enjoyed, the excesses of hope must be expiated by pain; and expectations improperly indulged must end in disappointment.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter (1 Jun 1762)
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter (1759-01-09) to Bennet Langton [paraphrase]

Dave — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 21:32:34 +0000

Towering is the confidence of twenty-one.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter (1759-01-09) to Bennet Langton [paraphrase]
(Source)

While usually quoted as above, the actual passage reads:

When I was as you are now, towering in the confidence of twenty-one, little did I suspect that I should be at forty-nine, what I now am.

Langton was only 14-15 at the time.

The letter is itself misdated (and often mis-cited) as being in 1758 when it was actually written in 1759 (based on Johnson's stated age and other internal evidence).

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson, Vol. 1: 1709-1765 (1791).

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter (21 Dec 1762)

Dave — Fri, 23 Aug 2013 16:02:24 +0000

There is, indeed, nothing that so much seduces reason from vigilance, as the thought of passing life with an amiable woman.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter (21 Dec 1762)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter to Dr. Charles Burney (18 Mar 1782)

Dave — Mon, 21 Apr 2014 22:45:11 +0000

A long apology is a hideous thing.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter to Dr. Charles Burney (18 Mar 1782)

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter to Hester Thrale (12 Apr 1781)

Dave — Fri, 16 May 2014 12:53:25 +0000

There is no wisdom in useless and hopeless sorrow, but there is something in it so like virtue, that he who is wholly without it cannot be loved.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter to Hester Thrale (12 Apr 1781)

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter to Hester Thrale (5 Jul 1783)

Dave — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 14:59:31 +0000

I am inclined to believe that few attacks either of ridicule or invective make much noise, but by the help of those they provoke.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter to Hester Thrale (5 Jul 1783)

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter to James Boswell (21 Aug 1766)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

Life is not long, and too much of it must not pass in idle deliberation of how it shall be spent; dleiberation, which those who begin it by prudence, and continue it with futility, must, afer long expence of thought, conclude by chance. To prefer one future mode of life to another, upon just reasons, requires faculties which it has not pleased our Creator to give us.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter to James Boswell (21 Aug 1766)
(Source)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter to James Boswell (27 Oct 1779)

Dave — Fri, 06 Sep 2013 12:26:39 +0000

If you are idle, be not solitary; if you are solitary, be not idle.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter to James Boswell (27 Oct 1779)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Johnson, Samuel -- Letter to Lord Chesterfield (1754)

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

A fly, Sir, may sting a stately horse and make him wince; but one is but an insect, and the other is a horse still.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Letter to Lord Chesterfield (1754)

In James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791), Note to entry for 20 Mar 1776.

Johnson, Samuel -- Opening of Drury Lane Theatre, Prologue (1747)

Dave — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 17:31:40 +0000

Ah! let not Censure term our fate our choice,
The stage but echoes back the public’s voice;
The drama’s laws the drama’s patrons give,
For we that live to please must please to live.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Opening of Drury Lane Theatre, Prologue (1747)

Johnson, Samuel -- Poem (1738), “London: A Poem,” ll. 159-160

Dave — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 14:16:57 +0000

All Crimes are safe, but hated Poverty.
This, only this, the rigid Law pursues.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Poem (1738), “London: A Poem,” ll. 159-160
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Poem (1738), “London: A Poem,” ll. 176-179

Dave — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:54:50 +0000

This mournful truth is ev’ry where confess’d,
SLOW RISES WORTH, BY POVERTY DEPRESS’D:
But here more slow, where all are slaves to gold,
Where looks are merchandise, and smiles are sold.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Poem (1738), “London: A Poem,” ll. 176-179
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Source (1750-03-24), The Rambler, No. 2

Dave — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 14:09:45 +0000

There is nothing more dreadful to an author than neglect, compared with which reproach, hatred, and opposition are names of happiness; yet this worse, this meanest fate, every one who dares to write has reason to fear.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Source (1750-03-24), The Rambler, No. 2
(Source)

Johnson, Samuel -- Story (1748-04), “The Vision of Theodore, The Hermit of Teneriffe, Found in His Cell,” The Gentleman’s Magazine, Vol. 18 [paraphrase]

Dave — Sun, 01 Feb 2004 16:00:00 +0000

The chains of habit are too light to be felt until they’re too heavy to be broken.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English writer, lexicographer, critic
Story (1748-04), “The Vision of Theodore, The Hermit of Teneriffe, Found in His Cell,” The Gentleman’s Magazine, Vol. 18 [paraphrase]

This phrase is frequently used by American investor Warren Buffett, but is most commonly credited to Samuel Johnson, always without citation because it is not Johnson's actual words. The actual passage from Johnson's moral allegory reads:

It was the peculiar artifice of Habit not to suffer her power to be felt at first. Those whom she led, she had the address of appearing only to attend, but was continually doubling her chains upon her companions; which were so slender in themselves, and so silently fastened, that while the attention was engaged by other objects, they were not easily perceived. Each link grew tighter as it had been longer worn, and when, by continual additions, they became so heavy as to be felt, they were very frequently too strong to be broken.

In Maria Edgeworth, Tales For Young People, "Forester" (1806), she includes this passage:

"I thought the lesson I got at the brewery," said he, "would have cured me for ever of this foolish trick; but the diminutive chains of habit, as somebody says, are scarecely ever heavy enough to be felt, till they are too strong to be broken."

Edgeworth footnotes after "diminutive chains of habit" that this comes from "Dr. Johnson's Vision of Theodore."

While "Vision of Theodore" has a couple of references to "diminutive" and a number of allegorical passages to "chains of Habit," it took a closer reading to find the passage above, replicated below with key words bolded:

It was the peculiar artifice of Habit not to suffer her power to be felt at first. Those whom she led, she had the address of appearing only to attend, but was continually doubling her chains upon her companions; which were so slender in themselves, and so silently fastened, that while the attention was engaged by other objects, they were not easily perceived. Each link grew tighter as it had been longer worn, and when, by continual additions, they became so heavy as to be felt, they were very frequently too strong to be broken.

It appears that later 19th and 20th Century variants on the quote paraphrase stem from Edgeworth's, but attributed to Johnson because of her footnote. This sort of fracturing of a quotation after a heavy paraphrase is not unusual. These variants include, in addition to the one noted above:

"The diminutive chains of habit are seldom heavy enough to be felt till they are too strong to be broken." [1856]
"The diminutive chains of habit are scarcely ever heavy enough to be felt, till they are too strong to be broken." [1859]
"The diminutive chains of habit are generally too small to be felt till they are too strong to be broken." [1861]
"The chains of habit are too weak to be felt until they are too strong to be broken." [1903]

The phrase "diminutive chains of habit" appears to predate Edgeworth, e.g., 1798.

For more information on this quotation's origin (which I had figured out before I found that the work had already been done on it) see Quote Origin: The Chains of Habit Are Too Light To Be Felt Until They Are Too Heavy To Be Broken – Quote Investigator®.