Poor Richard's Almanack Analysis

If Benjamin Franklin was to be defined in a word, then taking into consideration his own self-admittance for collecting family anecdotes and publishing proverbs in Poor Richard’s Almanack, then the word “quotable” comes to mind (McMichael et al., 375-377). The most oft quoted of these comes from the aforementioned Poor Richard’s Almanack published by Benjamin Franklin, which states “God helps them that helps themselves” (“Poor Richard”). While undeniably a saying that advocates for self-reliance and determination, the passage of two-hundred years can change the original intent of the words. After all, as the world changes, so does the nature of certain ideals and their original intention. In the world of today, the saying might be applied to a more

After all, Franklin said himself that its publication was “a proper vehicle for conveying instruction among the common people” (McMichael et al., 422). Among the hundreds of sayings, which seem to align with Franklin’s own virtues regarding frugality and industry, such as “dost thou love life? Then do not squander time”, there was one that rang true with a more liberal viewpoint (McMichael et al., 432). It states, “half-hospitality opens his doors and shuts up his countenance” (McMichael et al., 432). Simply put, it warns of an individual that gives the impression of being charitable, but truly offers no support. While seemingly small in this ocean of words, it still speaks the loudest. Reflecting on Franklin’s earlier charities towards others, even in the face of his own immediate poverty, adds a sudden perspective and boarder message than one’s own agency (McMichael et al., 392-393). Of all the proverbs that Franklin collected, perhaps the underlying message was to better oneself and others just the same when able. That is something no one should forget, liberal or conservative