Attention Quote by Samuel Johnson
“What we read with inclination makes a much stronger impression. If we read without inclination, half the mind is employed in fixing the attention; so there is but one half to be employed on what we read.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1759
Reading with interest engages the mind fully; without it, attention is split, reducing comprehension.
In simple terms: Interest deepens reading.
Read what engages you.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- studying
- leisure reading
- self‑education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you spark interest in a tough text?
- What strategies keep your focus?
Lack of interest hampers learning.