The Vanity of Human Wishes
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The Vanity of Human Wishes is a poem by Samuel Johnson, published in 1749. It is an imitation of the Roman satirist Juvenal's tenth satire. The poem is a profound meditation on the futility of human endeavors and the transient nature of worldly pursuits. Johnson examines various paths to greatness and happiness—such as ambition, wealth, scholarship, and beauty—demonstrating how each ultimately leads to disappointment and unfulfillment.
The work draws heavily on the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes, echoing its theme that "all is vanity." Unlike Juvenal's focus on Stoic virtues, Johnson concludes with an emphasis on Christian hope and patience. The poem is celebrated for its rich imagery, concise language, and powerful moral message, presenting a panoramic view of human striving against the backdrop of inevitable disillusionment.123
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