Samuel Johnson: Poems Summary

Samuel Johnson: Poems Summary

London

"London" is a poem of 263 lines by Samuel Johnson, and addresses the corruption and vices prevailing in London. The opening lines of the poem are controversial, with the poet bidding farewell to his friend who is leaving England. However, the poet has this consolation, that his friend’s retreat to St. David in Wales will keep his friend away from the vices and corruption of the city of London.

The Vanity of Human Wishes

"The Vanity of Human Wishes" is a satire that is written to rectify the moral absurdities of society and not to ridicule the same. This poem exposes the pointlessness of human power, pomp, dignity, and splendor. The poem focuses on the vagaries of fortunes, the uncertainty of people, and the frailties of pleasure.

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