Men who have flattered themselves into this opinion of their own abilities, look down on all who waste their lives over books, as a race of inferior beings condemned by nature to perpetual pupilage, and fruitlessly endeavouring to remedy their barrenness by incessant cultivation, or succour their feebleness by subsidiary strength. They presume that none would be more industrious than they, if they were not more sensible of deficiences; and readily conclude, that he who places no confidence in his own powers owes his modesty only to his weakness. ✨ Samuel Johnson (1823). The Works of Samuel Johnson: LL.D. A New Edition in Twelve Volumes. With an Essay on His Life and Genius, by Arthur Murphy, Esq, p.83
More Author Quotes
- Among the calamities of war may be numbered the diminution of the love of truth, by the falsehoods which interest dictates, and credulity encourages. ✨ The Idler no. 30 (11 Nov. 1758)
- It is better to live rich than to die rich. ✨ James Boswell, Samuel Johnson, Edmond Malone (1824). The life of Samuel Johnson, LL. D., comprehending an account of his studies, and numerous works, in … ▶
- The uniform necessities of human nature produce in a great measure uniformity of life, and for part of the day make one place like another; to dress and to undress, to eat and to sleep, are the same … ▶
- If the abuse be enormous, nature will rise up, and claiming her original rights, overturn a corrupt political system. ✨ James Boswell, Samuel Johnson, Edmond Malone (1824). The life of Samuel Johnson … ▶
- Sir, he throws away his money without thought and without merit. I do not call a tree generous that sheds its fruit at every breeze. ✨ Samuel Johnson (2010). Journey to the Hebrides: A Journey to the … ▶
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