“Advice to Youth” is a cleverly crafted speech penned by Mark Twain in 1882. It aims to entertain the youth while offering valuable guidance on establishing a solid foundation in life. Twain believes that the early years of one’s youth are crucial for sowing the seeds of success, ensuring prosperity in adulthood. From start to finish, “Advice to Youth” captivates and engages its audience.
Mark Twain divided his lecture into six sections, which he believed were essential points for guiding young people. In the beginning, Twain advises youngsters to obey their parents when they are in their presence. Using his sarcastic tone, he suggests that behaving well in front of parents can help avoid arguments, but once they are gone, it is acceptable to do as one pleases without them knowing. The second piece of advice is to show respect to authority figures, if there are any, as well as to strangers and sometimes to others.
Twain advises the youth to figuratively “throw a brick” as a metaphor for standing up for themselves. He encourages them to use silence as a powerful tool when being disrespected and to wait for the right opportunity for a clever comeback. Additionally, Twain emphasizes the importance of having a proper sleep schedule, comparing it to a lark and urging the youth not to waste their days. Finally, he highlights the significance of being cautious about lying, offering it as valuable advice.
Twain uses the example of a monument in Boston to illustrate the concept of lying. The monument is dedicated to a man who is credited with discovering anesthesia, but in truth, he stole the discovery from someone else. Twain suggests that while the monument may stand for years to come, the lie behind it will endure even longer. He advises against lying and encourages speaking the truth; however, if one feels compelled to lie, they should practice the art of lying with skill and grace. Additionally, Twain cautions young people to handle firearms responsibly and avoid careless behavior.
Mark Twain tells a story about a grandmother and her grandson, emphasizing that firearms are the most dangerous and deadliest creations of mankind. He concludes his message by advising the youth to read, but also urges caution in selecting books to nourish their brains. In my opinion, “Advice to Youth” is the most impactful speech I have ever come across, offering valuable guidance to young people on overlooked aspects of life that can complicate their journeys.
Mark Twain’s speech, titled “Advice to Youth,” presents points that deeply impact the lives of everyday young people. His use of sarcasm contributes to a lighthearted and entertaining lecture that is both accessible and comprehensible. By employing sarcasm, Twain encourages his audience to critically examine the ideas he is attempting to convey. The title of the lecture, “Advice to Youth,” encapsulates its purpose perfectly: reaching out to young individuals and guiding them towards self-improvement and the establishment of a solid foundation for future success as adults.
