How does Samuel Johnson express his political and social discontent in “London”?

How does Samuel Johnson express his political and social discontent in “London”?

Samuel Johnson expresses his deep political and social discontent in his poem “London” by presenting a powerful critique of 18th-century English society. The poem is written in the voice of a character named Thales, who announces his decision to leave the city of London and move to Wales, as he can no longer tolerate the corruption, injustice, and moral decay of the capital. Through Thales, Johnson gives voice to his own disappointment and anger toward the condition of Britain under the leadership of Prime Minister Robert Walpole, who, according to many critics, allowed political corruption and inequality to grow unchecked.

Johnson attacks the ruling class, accusing them of being selfish, greedy, and indifferent to the sufferings of the poor. He believes that those in power use their positions for personal gain, while the common people are left to suffer from crime, poverty, and social neglect. The legal system, too, is portrayed as corrupt, favoring the rich and ignoring the poor. Justice, according to Johnson, is no longer served fairly in the country. He writes lines like “justice with her sword asleep,” which suggests that law and order have fallen into silence, no longer protecting those who need it most.

One of the central themes of the poem is economic inequality. Johnson describes how the rich live in luxury, while the poor are homeless, hungry, and forced to struggle just to survive. He is also critical of the state of the arts and literature, stating that poets and writers no longer stand for truth but rather praise those in power in exchange for money or favor.

In addition to political concerns, Johnson also speaks about the moral decline of society. He believes that people have become selfish and dishonest, and that friendship, honesty, and virtue are disappearing from urban life. Religion itself, which should offer guidance, is being misused for personal advantage.

Although the tone of the poem is pessimistic, it also shows Johnson’s love for his country. He is not merely complaining—he is calling attention to the problems in the hope that society might improve. “London” is a powerful poem that reflects Johnson’s sorrow, anger, and patriotism, all woven together in a classical form that gives strength and dignity to his message.