This is one of the disadvantages of wine: it makes a man mistake words for thought

This is one of the disadvantages of wine: it makes a man mistake words for thought

Samuel Johnson, the renowned English writer and lexicographer, was known for his wit, intelligence, and love of wine. However, he was also aware of the pitfalls that could come with indulging in too much of the alcoholic beverage. Johnson once famously remarked, "This is one of the disadvantages of wine: it makes a man mistake words for thought."

In this statement, Johnson is highlighting the tendency for alcohol, particularly wine, to impair one's judgment and ability to think clearly. When under the influence of alcohol, a person's inhibitions are lowered, leading them to speak more freely and perhaps without as much consideration for the consequences of their words. This can result in a person saying things that they may not mean or expressing thoughts that are not well thought out.

For Johnson, a man of great intellect and eloquence, the idea of mistaking words for thought would have been particularly troubling. He valued clear and precise language, believing that words should be chosen carefully to convey meaning accurately. To him, the idea of speaking without thinking would have been anathema.

Furthermore, Johnson was also known for his moralistic views and belief in the importance of self-control. He understood that excessive drinking could lead to a loss of control over one's actions and words, potentially leading to embarrassment or regret. By cautioning against the dangers of wine, Johnson was advocating for moderation and restraint in all aspects of life.

It is worth noting that Johnson himself struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, which may have influenced his perspective on the subject. Despite his own battles with the bottle, he was able to recognize the dangers of excessive drinking and the potential for it to cloud one's judgment.