Response paper

The Life of Samuel Johnson Boswell uses provoking imagery to contrast the techniques used by the two to deliver their messages; he comments on the influence the two authors have on their readers. Boswell also employs figurative language and tries to paint a vivid image in the readers mind about the authors’ intent. Boswell suggests that Addison did not fully explore his potential as a writer; he refers to Addison as “ nerveless and feeble” (1. 3). He recognizes that Addison does not have Johnson’s “ Strength and energy” (1. 4), but the ease in which he writes makes his readers fancy his work. Boswell appreciates the fact that Addison is able to propagate his sentiments and preference to his reader’s minds without them perceiving the influence.
Johnson “ writes like a teacher” (11. 9): Boswell recognizes the authority and firmness that is reflected in Johnson’s work. The readers of the two authors have completely different experiences; Johnson’s readers are captivated from the start, his firm and commanding eloquence inspire his readers and they admire him for that. On the other hand, for Addison’s first time readers, his work provokes a feeling of aggression from him but once the reader indulges more into his work they become captivated. , “ like a liquor of more body, seems too strong at first” (11. 16),
Boswell does not clearly say if any of the two is a better other but he recognizes and appreciates how readers are satisfied with their work. “ so much do they captivate the ear, and seize upon attention” (15. 1).