Quotes by Samuel Johnson

A cucumber should be well-sliced, dressed with pepper and vinegar, and then thrown out.

A man is very apt to complain of the ingratitude of those who have risen far above him.

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

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.

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

Do not accustom yourself to use big words for little matters.

Don't think of retiring from the world until the world will be sorry that you retire. I hate a fellow whom pride or cowardice or laziness drives into a corner, and who does nothing when he is there but sit and growl. Let him come out as I do, and bark.

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

Few things are impossible to diligence and skill. Great works are performed not by strength, but perseverance.

Hope is itself a species of happiness, and, perhaps, the chief happiness which this world affords.

Hope is necessary in every condition.

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

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

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

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

It is better to live rich than to die rich.

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

Love is the wisdom of the fool and the folly of the wise.

Men have been wise in many different modes; but they have always laughed the same way.

Of all noises, I think music is the least disagreeable.

Of all the griefs that harass the distrest,
Sure the most bitter is a scornful jest.