Lives of the Poets

Name: Lives of the Poets
Author: Samuel Johnson

by Samuel Johnson

Samuel Johnson's 'Lives of the Poets': the first attempt to analyze poetry in the context of the life which created it. To me, Johnson is an exemplary critic: thrilling in both the witty balance of his judgment and his prose.

Recommended by

John Lahr

"Samuel Johnson's 'Lives of the Poets': the first attempt to analyze poetry in the context of the life which created it. To me, Johnson is an exemplary critic: thrilling in both the witty balance of his judgment and his prose."

By the Book: John Lahr · nytimes.com