Benjamin Franklin is one of the best writers that America has ever produced. Benjamin Franklin essays have been the benchmark for essay writers. The supple, satirical and witty style adapted in the essays written by Benjamin Franklin entertains readers to their hearts’ content. Benjamin Franklin essays are a perfect blend of wit along with wisdom that throws light on the then- prevalent social, economic and political issues. Essays by Benjamin Franklin are rich in humor and satire drawn from daily life experiences. The essays by Benjamin Franklin are tinted with laughter elements to grab maximum attention of mass readers.
The most renowned author, printer, politician, political theorist, scientist, inventor, musician, satirist, diplomat and statesman hailed from a middle-class family, who failed to provide him with a formal education. His father, Josiah Franklin was a soap and candle maker but aspired to send Franklin to a school visited by the clergy. Being unable to gather fund for his studies, Benjamin had to discontinue formal education at the age of ten. The rest of his studies banked upon his voracious reading that enlightened him. He stepped into the professional world at the age of twelve when he served as an apprentice to his brother James, a printer. He started writing at the age of 15 under the pseudonym Mrs. Silence Dogood. Soon writings by Benjamin Franklin gained momentum and his identity was disclosed. Differences cropped up between his brother and him and he left behind his family for an independent livelihood in Philadelphia.
The most renowned writing of Benjamin Franklin, Poor Richard’s Almanac was published in 1733. This proved to be the threshold of his fame as a writer and continued hence forth. Franklin believed in a simple, clear and smooth way of communication and Benjamin Franklin writings portrayed his likings. Simplicity being the dominant characteristic of the writings by Benjamin Franklin attracted the not-so-educated readers of that age. He knew how to play with words and bring out the deep rooted satire even in difficult life situations. Many scholars point out at the fact that his writing’s lacked factual accuracy but his convincing style created a make-believe picture for the readers. Most of his writings had an objective style that allowed the readers to ignore the historical evidences. Being a learned person, he was open to all sorts of criticism. He not only pointed out the flaws of other contemporary writers but never retrieved from accept his own faults.
Benjamin Franklin loved experimenting with human minds. He believed in the imperfection of human beings and loved exploring the nooks and corners of human emotion. Thus his interest in human psychology provoked him to justify human behavior and be tolerant. This was also a dominant characteristic of Benjamin Franklin writings. “The Whistle” by Benjamin Franklin is one such short story dealing with the introspection and perception of the outer world by a small child. It establishes the distinction drawn between a necessary and unnecessary thing in the life of a man of mediocre stature. This piece uses a lot of symbolism when the narrator refers to the “whistle” to refer to his past and is a good plot with a good purpose.
Benjamin Franklin’s essays on fart were other notorious yet famous works. These essays were prohibited from being published during his lifetime but after his death his friend Joseph Priestley took special interest in publishing them. Franklin faced many criticisms but be emerged as a graceful writer through all his hardships. He knew the trick to live a jovial life and bring out laughter in life’s most difficult situation.