The Life of Samuel Johnson
The Life of Samuel Johnson
James Boswell
Mark Twain
Mark Twain recommended this book in a letter.
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The Life of Samuel Johnson

The Life of Samuel Johnson

James Boswell
By
James Boswell
3.8
5170
ratings on Goodreads

In the annals of literary history, few relationships have been as richly symbiotic as that between Samuel Johnson, the eminent 18th-century lexicographer, critic, and moralist, and his biographer, James Boswell. Boswell's "The Life of Samuel Johnson" is more than a biography; it is a panoramic portrait of a towering intellect and the colorful era he inhabited. With an unrivaled fervor for life and an incessant hunger for understanding, Johnson's multifaceted persona is meticulously captured by Boswell through a tapestry of vivid anecdotes, penetrating observations, and a wealth of personal reflections. This work is not merely about chronicling the days of a great man but rather, through its exhaustive and engaging narrative, it invites the reader into the intimate world of Johnson, offering a glimpse into the mind of a genius and the heart of a friend. Crafted with a dedication that saw Boswell meticulously noting conversations, reflections, and the minutiae of Johnson's life, this biography stands as a monumental achievement in literature. It transcends the traditional confines of biography to become a celebration of human complexity, intellectual fervor, and the enduring power of friendship. Boswell's narrative prowess, combined with his keen observations and the ability to render the essence of Johnson's character in text, makes "The Life of Samuel Johnson" a masterpiece that has not only defined the art of biography but also continues to captivate and inspire readers centuries after its first publication. It is, without a doubt, a luminous beacon in the landscape of English literature, showcasing the timeless appeal of Johnson's wit, wisdom, and the indelible spirit of the era he epitomized.

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Released
1790
1 Jan
Length
1344
Pages

1

recommendations

recommendation

Mark Twain recommended this book in a letter.
It matters not how a man dies, but how he lives. The act of dying is not of importance, it lasts so short a time.
— James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson

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