ENG305H1 Lecture Notes - Turning Tables
Document Summary
Rich elite tell poor to write for him, have to obey. Payment could be nothing but social recognition. Samuel johnson (writer of first dictionary) vs chesterfield patron johnson expect to be paid, when not, write calculating letter declaring he"s the author of the work. Pivotal bridge between augustan (pope, swift) to romantics. Figure whose personality is inseparable from writing and style (new in 18th century) Pope first famous writer, johnson first person people wanted to be like and relate to. Lord chesterfield one of most important people in nation, famous to be well-spoken, most correct use of english, so johnson"s publishers convince him to dedicate it to him. Johnson considers it slavery, 7 years writing dictionary miserable, sick, depressed, not much money. Finish dictionary, write rambler, acquire name for himself but wasted health. Declare chesterfield will not have any part of dictionary. Chesterfield assume everyone would be thankful to nobles but not johnson.
