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Quote by Samuel Johnson

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The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D.: With An Essay on His Life and Genius

This volume encompasses a wide array of Samuel Johnson's literary works, showcasing his contributions to English literature. It includes his famous dictionary, essays, and other writings, along with an insightful essay that delves into his life and the influence of his genius on the literary world. more

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Samuel Johnson
Samuel Johnson

Samuel Johnson was an English writer, poet, and lexicographer, renowned for his comprehensive English dictionary, 'A Dictionary of the English Language', published in 1755. His distinctive writing style and wit have cemented his place as a significant figure in the history of English literature. more

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“In order that all men may be taught to speak truth, it is necessary that all likewise should learn to hear it; for no species of falsehood is more frequent than flattery, to which the coward is betrayed by fear, the dependent by interest, and the friend by tenderness: those who are neither servile nor timorous are yet desirous to bestow pleasure; and, while unjust demands of praise continue to be made, there will always be some whom hope, fear, or kindness will dispose to pay them.”

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Book:The Beauties of Samuel Johnson, Etc. (A New Edition, Being the Ninth.).
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“Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present. The acknowledgment of those virtues on which conscience congratulates us is a tribute that we can at any tine exact with confidence; but the celebration of those which we only feign, or desire without any vigorous endeavours to attain them, is received as a confession of sovereignty over regions never conquered, as a favourable decision of disputable claims, and is more welcome as more gratuitous.”

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Book:The Rambler
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“Few men survey themselves with so much severity as not to admit prejudices in their own favour, which an artful flatterer may gradually strengthen, till wishes for a particular qualification are improved to hopes of attainment, and hopes of attainment to belief of possession.”

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Book:The Rambler: A Periodical Paper, Published in 1750, 1751, 1752
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