This is the Doctor Johnson of the “Prayers”—
That great, tormented, craggy man, who poured
His sloth, his lovingkindness, and his cares
In agonized petitions to the Lord.

O rough, pure, stubborn, troubled soul: for whom
A smile of special tenderness men keep—
Who prayed for strength “to regulate my room,”
And “preservation from immoderate sleep.”…

If life brought Doctor Johnson to his knees
It may bring others also, if you please—
Bachelors of Arts …