A Reminiscence of Dr. Samuel Johnson

Synopsis

This spoof is from the point of view of a colleague of Samuel Johnson, something that showcased Lovecraft’s passion for antiquities and classical writers. The narrator introduces himself as being 228 years old and goes on to document his interactions with Dr. Johnson. Being older and in a time when respect for elders was everything, the narrator expects Dr. Johnson to appreciate his writing, which the man does not. While the tale goes on to document other awkward meetings with Dr. Johnson, he ultimately dies younger than the narrator – who goes on to continue writing and living an unfulfilled life.