Quotes Library

April 27, 2025

A decent provision for the poor, is the true test of civilization.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), English poet, critic, lexicographer, in James Boswell, Life of Samuel Johnson (1791) 1770, Jay p.197

Do the poor inspire compassion, or are they just annoying? Shiftless scammers?

Johnson puts it well, and simply so.

November 14, 2025

3 months ago

He preferred to be rather than to seem good.

August 23, 2025

6 months ago

To think contrary to one’s era is heroism. But to speak against it is madness.

March 27, 2025

11 months ago

[On David Steel, Leader of the Liberal Party] He’s passed from rising hope to elder statesman without any intervening period whatsoever.

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