Quote by Samuel Johnson
The blaze of reputation cannot be blown out, but it often dies in the socket; a very few names may be considered as perpetual lamps that shine unconsumed.
Summary
This quote suggests that reputation, like a bright flame, cannot be easily diminished in the eyes of others. However, it emphasizes that for most individuals, their reputation will eventually fade away. Only a select few individuals can be likened to everlasting lamps, whose reputation continues to shine bright and untarnished, standing the test of time.