Letter to James Elphinston, 16 October 1782
Samuel Johnson
Johnson was writing to a friend who shared his literary pursuits but struggled with finances. In 18th-century England, poverty could mean not just material lack but a loss of freedom and moral opportunity. By urging Elphinston to live within his means, Johnson was advocating for a kind of self-governance—spend less, and safeguard your liberty and virtue.