In this work are exhibited, in a very high degree, the two most engaging powers of an author. New things are made familiar, and familiar things are made new.
Samuel JohnsonNever speak of a man in his own presence. It is always indelicate, and may be offensive .
Samuel JohnsonLife, to be worthy of a rational being, must be always in progression; we must always purpose to do more or better than in time past.
Samuel JohnsonThe necessities of our condition require a thousand offices of tenderness, which mere regard for the species will never dictate.
Samuel JohnsonI have thought of a pulley to raise me gradually; but that would give me pain, as it would counteract my natural inclination. I would have something that can dissipate the inertia and give elasticity to the muscles. We can heat the body, we can cool it; we can give it tension or relaxation; and surely it is possible to bring it into a state in which rising from bed will not be a pain.
Samuel Johnson