Meaning: The quote "To get a name can happen but to few; it is one of the few things that cannot be brought. It is the free gift of mankind, which must be deserved before it will be granted, and is at last unwillingly bestowed." by Samuel Johnson, speaks to the significance and value of reputation and the complexities involved in earning a good name. Samuel Johnson was an English writer, lexicographer, and critic, best known for his compilation of the first comprehensive dictionary of the English language. In this quote, Johnson reflects on the notion that a person's reputation, or "name," is not something that can be bought or acquired easily, but rather something that is earned through actions and behavior.

The first part of the quote, "To get a name can happen but to few," suggests that achieving a good reputation is a rare occurrence. It implies that not everyone is able to attain a distinguished name or reputation, indicating that it is a significant achievement. Johnson emphasizes the rarity of earning a noteworthy name, highlighting its value and the challenges involved in obtaining it.

The subsequent statement, "It is one of the few things that cannot be brought," underscores the idea that a person's reputation cannot be purchased or acquired through material means. Johnson suggests that a good name cannot be obtained through wealth or possessions, emphasizing the intangible nature of reputation and the qualities that truly define a person's character.

The quote further states, "It is the free gift of mankind, which must be deserved before it will be granted," conveying the idea that a person's reputation is ultimately bestowed upon them by others. Johnson suggests that a good name is a gift given by society, earned through one's actions, conduct, and treatment of others. This emphasizes the importance of integrity, honesty, and moral behavior in shaping one's reputation.

The final part of the quote, "and is at last unwillingly bestowed," suggests that a good name is not easily or willingly given. Johnson implies that obtaining a distinguished reputation is a challenging and arduous process, requiring consistent effort and virtuous conduct. This highlights the idea that a person's reputation is ultimately determined by the collective judgment of society, and is not easily or readily granted.

In summary, Samuel Johnson's quote emphasizes the rarity and value of a good name, highlighting the idea that reputation is earned through virtuous behavior and is ultimately bestowed by society. This thought-provoking reflection on the nature of reputation serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and ethical conduct in shaping one's character and perception in the eyes of others.