Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) was an American statesman and humorist whose extensive writings generated a great quantity of pithy observations on the nature of the times in which he lived and the human experience more generally. Many of these aphorisms, printed in his encyclopedic Poor Richard's Almanac, express values that are still relevant in contemporary America.
One of Franklin's aphorisms that holds true today is "write injuries in dust, benefits in marble." Here, Franklin suggests not to be consumed by one's mistakes but, rather, remember the successes of one's life and career. The importance of remembering one's successes continues to be a mantra important in modern times. Heather Yamada-Hosley, writing in 2015 in Lifehacker, affirms this as a modern virtue by referencing other authors who also believe in its importance.
Another aphorism with contemporary relevance is "there are no gains, without pains." In other words, hard work is needed to achieve meaningful results. This has been reimagined in contemporary times into the exercise slogan "no pain, no gain." Underscoring its currency is the fact that Google returns more than 13 million search results for the modern iteration of the phrase.
Franklin wrote and published Poor Richard's Almanack under the pseudonym of Richard Saunders. The purpose of the publication was to promote what Franklin considered to be important cultural values.
Saunders was characterized as a poor yet ambitious man who succeeded by means of hard work and exceptional moral character. He embodies the values of the "American Dream," a phrase that refers to the popular notion that no matter where you come from, if you work hard for long enough, you can earn a comfortable life for yourself and your family.
The American Dream is something many people still cling to today, so the values associated with it are still widely held. Here are just a few quotes with aphorisms that touch on notions related to the American Dream and the value of hard and diligent work. You can find many more in the text.
No man e'er was glorious, who was not laborious.
He that waits upon Fortune, is never sure of a Dinner.
Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.
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