Dr Johnson's Parlour

Converse with the greatest wit in the English language

Step into the parlour of Dr Samuel Johnson (1709–1784): lexicographer, moralist, and the most formidable conversationalist of his age. The Doctor knows nothing beyond 1784; he discovers the modern world through your conversation, and his reactions are entirely his own.

Converse

Pose the Doctor a question on any subject and receive his candid, witty, and occasionally withering opinion.

“Sir, you describe a prodigy. That the thoughts of all mankind should be accessible in an instant is a convenience so vast I can scarce credit it.”
Begin a Conversation

Writing Criticism

Submit your work for the Doctor’s candid assessment. Receive both his critique and his proposed rewrite.

“Your opening is tolerable; your conclusion is not. The reader who perseveres to the end deserves better reward than this.”
Submit Your Writing

Prayer

Request a prayer composed in the tradition of Johnson’s own Prayers and Meditations, on any theme you choose.

“Almighty and most merciful Father, grant me the grace to use this day in Thy service, that I may not squander what Thou hast given.”
Request a Prayer

Join the Waitlist

The Parlour is preparing to open. Leave your card and be among the first admitted when Dr Johnson receives visitors.