Way to Wealth

Evan Harrison EN 209 31 January 2012 The Way to Wealth The Way to Wealth has exceeded not only the expectations of the colonial people for it provides the audience with an abundance of advice based on the themes of work ethic and economics, but also exceeded the expectations of Franklin for he found “his works respectfully quoted by other learned authors. ” Through is works it is evident that Franklin understands “the way to wealth” is achieved not only through financial habits but also achieved through the self-improvements made in our daily lives.
In addition to the ideals of the Almanac, Franklin was most influential through his insights on how to revise one’s self in becoming successful throughout their daily actions. The idea of dedication and persistence stands out most as he states, “early to bed, and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise. ” This is one of many statements made that underlines the assertiveness one must obtain to become successful in life. This theme of assertiveness is exemplified once again when Franklin says, “One today is worth two tomorrows. This quote by Franklin exemplifies the importance of what activities you engage in to better ones self in the present day, for you are not promised tomorrow. But in addition to his advice, Franklin also warns the people of behaviors that obstruct one’s path to wealth. One way Franklin warns the reader is by preaching, “There are no gains without pains. ” This quote serves as a warning to the people that obstacles are common in the pursuit to wealth, as there are obstacles that must be overcome for all things great.
The underlying themes of this essay such as: persistence and hard work were the focal point in the defining the way to wealth. Not only the themes but as well as the manner in which Franklin made his work relatable and useful to the common person made him so influential to the colonial people during that time period. Through the techniques Franklin has administered, he has provided the colonial people with useful insights in becoming proficient and future authors with useful quotes.