In this massive collection, Johnson systematically comments upon the life circumstances and poetic accomplishments of renown poets through history. There are 56 poets in total whom he addresses. Basically, Johnson provides a (usually) brief summary of the poet's life, followed by a description of the person's character, and then he adds his own commentary upon their poetry. Although Johnson borrows heavily from secondary sources for his biography portions, the text is both detailed and engaging.
Of John Milton, Johnson devotes adoration to the scholar's language proficiency from such a young age. Education appears to be the first piece of the puzzle that is this infamous poet's success. Johnson writes about other poets to whom Milton owes homage like Spenser, Shakespeare, and Cowley. Additionally, Johnson does not shy away form Milton's larger works like Paradise Lost, providing thorough commentary.
Addressing John Dryden, Johnson focuses on the poet's youth. In his younger days Dryden began writing poetry in school, which quickly endears him to the general public because they are so personal yet simultaneously professional. Johnson eagerly points out how Dryden is a product of his day because he filled a void in the public literary circle. His contemporaries adapted to Dryden's peculiar form of long-verse.
