Stanzas 1-6:
The poem opens with a description of a bustling city, where people pursue various goals and ambitions tirelessly but often end in disappointment. Johnson introduces the idea that human wishes are often misguided, leading to dissatisfaction and suffering.
Stanzas 7-10:
Johnson illustrates this point by presenting several examples of individuals, each with distinct ambitions. These include a conqueror (Charles XII of Sweden), a statesman (Cardinal Wolsey), a philosopher (Cicero), a poet (Dryden), and a beauty queen (Helen of Troy). Despite their achievements or external attributes, these individuals ultimately face failure or disappointment.
Stanza 11-28:
The poet delves deeper into the reasons for human failures. He asserts that humans are flawed creatures, prone to pride and vanity. Johnson identifies several vices such as envy, jealousy, and desire for wealth and power as sources of unhappiness.
Stanzas 29-44:
Johnson suggests that a simple and virtuous life is the key to contentment. He criticizes the pursuit of excessive pleasure, wealth, and fame, arguing that they ultimately lead to disillusionment and misery.
Stanzas 45-60:
In the final part of the poem, Johnson provides a stoic perspective. He encourages individuals to accept the limitations of human existence and find solace in the pursuit of virtue and a humble life. He reminds readers that the only true satisfaction lies in living a moral and honorable existence.
Overall, "The Vanity of Human Wishes" offers a philosophical meditation on the futility of human desires and aspirations. Johnson emphasizes the importance of humility, virtue, and self-awareness as essential qualities for achieving genuine happiness and contentment in life.