Books Quote by Samuel Johnson
“There are three distinct kind of judges upon all new authors or productions; the first are those who know no rules, but pronounce entirely from their natural taste and feelings; the second are those who know and judge by rules; and the third are those who know, but are above the rules. These last are those you should wish to satisfy. Next to them rate the natural judges; but ever despise those opinions that are formed by the rules.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1759
Judges differ: those guided by taste, those by rules, and those above rules; the latter deserve highest regard.
In simple terms: Critics vary in basis; the most independent are best.
Key Takeaway
Value independent judgment.
Themes
criticism
art
independence
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- literary review
- film critique
- art appraisal
- personal feedback
Key Concepts
aesthetic judgment
rule vs intuition
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify independent critics?
- When should rules be challenged?
A Different Perspective
Independent judges are rare.
