Advantage Quote by Samuel Johnson
“Among those whose reputation is exhausted in a short time by its own luxuriance are the writers who take advantage of present incidents or characters which strongly interest the passions, and engage universal attention. It is not difficult to obtain readers, when we discuss a question which every one is desirous to understand, which is debated in every assembly, and has divided the nation into parties; or when we display the faults or virtues of him whose public conduct has made almost every man his enemy or his friend.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, No. 14, 1759
Writers who exploit sensational topics and polarized figures can quickly gain fame, but such reputation is fleeting and shallow.
In simple terms: Sensationalism brings short‑term fame but lacks depth.
Key Takeaway
Avoid chasing controversy for fame.
Themes
journalism
reputation
sensationalism
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
observational
When to use this quote
- political commentary
- celebrity gossip
- news cycles
Key Concepts
public opinion
media ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you value depth over attention?
- How can writers maintain integrity amid popular demand?
A Different Perspective
Short‑lived fame often collapses when the novelty fades.
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
