Johnson, Samuel (Samuel Johnson)

The greatest part of a writer's time is spent in reading, in order to write; a man will turn over half a library to make one book.
-- Samuel Johnson

Mankind have a great aversion to intellectual labor; but even supposing knowledge to be easily attainable, more people would be content to be ignorant than would take even a little trouble to acquire it.
-- Samuel Johnson

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

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

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

Men are generally idle, and ready to satisfy themselves, and intimidate the industry of others, by calling that impossible which is only difficult.
-- Samuel Johnson

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

A generous and elevated mind is distinguished by nothing more certainly than an eminent degree of curiosity.

-- Samuel Johnson

The future is purchased by the present.
-- Samuel Johnson

Language is the dress of thought.
-- Samuel Johnson

I hate mankind, for I think myself to be one of them, and I know how bad I am.
-- Samuel Johnson

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

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

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.

-- Samuel Johnson

Technorati Tags: Quotations