When I called upon Dr. Johnson next morning, I found him highly satisfied with his colloquial prowess the preceding evening. 'Well, (said he,) we had good talk.' BOSWELL: 'Yes, Sir, you tossed and gored several persons.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Johnson was pleased with his evening conversation, while Boswell joked about the heated debate.
- In plain terms
- Johnson enjoyed the lively talk, Boswell teased about the intensity.
- What can you take from it?
- Good conversation can be both satisfying and contentious.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does debate become enjoyable?
- How does humor affect intellectual exchange?
Another view
The quote relies on inside jokes not clear to outsiders.
More from James Boswell
Such groundless fears will arise in the mind, before it has resumed its vigour after sleep!
Permalink to quote #9 He who has provoked the lash of wit, cannot complain that he smarts from it.
Permalink to quote #11 I regretted I was not the head of a clan; however, though not possessed of such an hereditary advantage, I would always endeavour to make my tenants follow me.
Permalink to quote #8
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