Johnson’s “London” – An Escape from Corruption and Hypocrisy

ellipsis essays

In this article, we’re diving into Samuel Johnson’s poem “London,” his first major splash in the literary scene from way back in 1738.

At the time, Johnson was a young poet who followed in the footsteps of Augustan poets like Alexander Pope, imitating classical poets to make a name for himself. “London” is Johnson’s satirical take on Juvenal’s Third Satire, following the character of Thales as he ditches London for the tranquility of the Welsh countryside.

Despite being published anonymously, “London” caught the attention of critics, including Pope himself, and was reprinted in multiple editions the same year. The poem’s political basis was a significant factor behind its praise, but over time, it’s been overshadowed by Johnson’s later works like “The Vanity of Human Wishes” and his famous dictionary.

But let’s rewind a bit to understand the context in which Johnson wrote “London.” In 1737, he moved to the city, soon finding employment with Edward Cave and penning articles for The Gentleman’s Magazine. Inspired by Pope’s “imitations” of Horace, Johnson took a stab at his own imitation, targeting political corruption in the process.

So, what’s “London” all about? Johnson channels Juvenal’s Third Satire, replacing Rome with London and Umbricius with Thales. Thales has had enough of London’s corruption and hypocrisy, deciding it’s time to seek solace in Wales. The poem’s epigraph, from Juvenal, translates to: “Who is so patient of the foolish [wicked] city, so iron-willed, as to contain himself?”

Thales doesn’t hold back when it comes to speaking his mind. Frustrated with living among hypocrites, he takes a jab at the corrupt government for bribing people to stay in line. But amidst the chaos, Thales and the narrator find time to reminisce about England’s golden days (apparently, when England was “the Dread of Spain”). Together, they daydream about King Henry V and Queen Elizabeth’s positive contributions to London and, in a moment of patriotic passion, even kneel to kiss the sacred ground, celebrating Britannia’s past glories.

Alas, Thales can’t lament forever. A boat arrives, and he bids his friend farewell before setting sail for a life away from London’s vices. The poem leaves us to reflect on the city’s condition and ponder the state of its government.

So, that is a birds’ eye view of Samuel Johnson’s “London.” A poem born from the desire to showcase his talent, it remains a relevant reminder of the hypocrisy and corruption that can seep into society, especially big cities like London or maybe even the city that you live in. So the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by the chaos around you, let Thales’ escape to the countryside be your inspiration. Remember that sometimes, finding solace in nature’s embrace and choosing a simpler life – even if it means living with less – can bring the peace and happiness we crave.

26 comments

Leave a Reply