The Lives of the Poets - Classic Text | Alexandria
The Lives of the Poets by Samuel Johnson, more than a mere collection of biographies, stands as a landmark in literary criticism, a monumental edifice constructed from penetrating insight, personal prejudice, and the sheer force of Johnson's intellect. Often regarded as a definitive assessment of English poetry, it is equally a window into the soul of its author, a complex and often contradictory figure. But is this the final word on these poets or a starting point for endless debate and reinterpretation?
Its genesis can be traced to 1777 when a group of London booksellers sought Johnson's assistance in producing a biographical and critical preface to a collected edition of English poets. This seemingly straightforward task evolved into a project spanning from 1779 to 1781, culminating in the publication of "Prefaces, Biographical and Critical, to the Works of the English Poets," later canonized as "The Lives of the Poets." The late 18th century was a period of burgeoning literary nationalism, a time when defining a national literary identity was crucial. Against the backdrop of political upheaval and intellectual ferment, Johnson's work aimed to establish a canon of English poetry, a standard against which all others could be measured.
Over time, the Lives has been lauded, criticized, and endlessly analyzed. Romantic poets like Wordsworth chafed against Johnson's Neoclassical sensibilities, finding them restrictive and unimaginative. Yet, the work’s enduring power lies in its humanity. Johnson, never shy about his personal biases, engaged with these poets not as distant figures but as fellow human beings grappling with mortality, ambition, and the challenges of their craft. The inclusion of poets like Richard Savage, whose life intertwined with Johnson's own struggles, adds a layer of poignant self-reflection. Did Johnson see reflections of himself in these lives, and to what extent did this influence his evaluations?
The Lives of the Poets continues to resonate today, not as an immutable judgment, but as an invitation to reconsider the very nature of biography, criticism, and the enduring power of poetry to illuminate the human condition. As long as readers seek to understand the relationship between life and art, Johnson's masterpiece will remain a touchstone, a source of inspiration, and a provocation to think anew about the masters of English verse. What new readings might future generations bring to these lives, and what forgotten voices might yet be added to the canon?