No man but a blockhead ever wrote except for money

No man but a blockhead ever wrote except for money

Samuel Johnson, a renowned English writer, critic, and lexicographer, is often quoted as saying, "No man but a blockhead ever wrote except for money." This statement has sparked much debate and discussion among literary scholars and writers alike. Some argue that Johnson's words are a harsh indictment of the commercialization of literature, while others see it as a pragmatic acknowledgment of the economic realities of being a writer.

Johnson's statement can be interpreted in several ways. On one hand, it can be seen as a critique of writers who prioritize financial gain over artistic integrity. In Johnson's view, writing solely for money is a sign of intellectual laziness and lack of passion for the craft. He believed that true writers should be motivated by a love of language and a desire to communicate their ideas, rather than by the pursuit of profit.

On the other hand, Johnson's words can also be viewed as a recognition of the practical challenges faced by writers in his time. In the 18th century, many writers struggled to make a living from their work, as the literary marketplace was highly competitive and often unpredictable. For these writers, writing for money was not a choice, but a necessity in order to support themselves and their families.