Is not a patron, my lord, one who looks with unconcern on a man struggling for life in the water, and when he has reached ground encumbers him with help? The notice which you have been pleased to take of my labors, had it been early, had been kind; but it has been delayed till I am indifferent, and cannot enjoy it; till I am solitary, and cannot impart it; till I am known, and do not want it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Patronage that arrives too late is useless when independence is already achieved.
- In plain terms
- Help that comes late is not useful when you have already succeed on your own.
- What can you take from it?
- Timely support matters more than late recognition.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does help become useless?
- How do you value support?
Another view
Late recognition can still offer network benefits despite timing.
More from Samuel Johnson
A man may write at any time, if he will set himself doggedly to it.
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