The desire of advising has a very extensive prevalence; and, since advice cannot be given but to those that will hear it, a patient listener is necessary to the accommodation of all those who desire to be confirmed in the opinion of their own wisdom: a patient listener, however, is not always to be had; the present age, whatever age is present, is so vitiated and disordered, that young people are readier to talk than to attend, and good counsel is only thrown away upon those who are full of their own perfections.

Summary

This quote by Samuel Johnson highlights the pervasive need for advice and a patient listener in society. Johnson argues that people possess a strong desire to offer advice and confirm their own wisdom, but a patient listener is crucial for successful communication. However, in the present age, characterized by corruption and disorder, most individuals are more inclined to speak rather than attentively listen. Consequently, providing good counsel becomes futile when directed at those consumed by their own sense of perfection.

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