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.

December 31, 2025

2 months ago

Civilization is nothing else but the attempt to reduce force to being the last resort.

September 30, 2025

5 months ago

[Definition of] Class: when they’re running you out of town, to look like you’re leading the parade.

October 24, 2025

4 months ago

[On dealing with the Royal Family] I never deny, I never contradict. I sometimes forget.

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