Mark Twain, known at the time as a humorous author, wrote a speech on “Advice to Youth”. Twain gives several pieces of advice, all with a touch of honesty. The way this speech was written suggests that it would have been given at a graduation ceremony. Perhaps Twain had been invited to speak at a college graduation ceremony and was going to give this speech. This is the perfect speech to address young people. Twain’s advice begins with “always obey your parents…” (Norton, 550), which is sound advice. The rule to obey one's parents comes directly from the Ten Commandments. Obeying your parents is a rule as old as time, engraved in everyday teachings. Twain distorts this idea and adds “…when they are present” (Norton, 550) by saying to only obey your parents when they are there. What parents don't know won't hurt them. It's the same idea of; if a tree falls when no one is there, it makes a noise. If no one is present to physically hear the tree fall, is it considered a sound? It’s the same reasoning with; if a person commits a crime but no one was hurt or even noticed that a crime was committed, is it still considered a crime. Twain says that if parents are not there, it is okay not to obey. Twain also adds “pleasure this superstition” (Norton, 550). Superstition is the idea that parents always know what is best and indulging this idea would be beneficial. Parents believe that they are all knowing beings and that children must obey. That being said, parents can do no wrong and it would be wise to embrace this idea. Twain writes, “Be respectful to your superiors, if you have any. » (Norton, 550) This advice contradicts the first advice to always obey your parents. , but the contradictions and rebellion seem to be a continuous story...... middle of paper ...... there is a life and a reputation. In such a brief lesson, so many principles that will last a lifetime can be derived. Twain packs so much knowledge and wisdom into one two-page essay. Twain's advice knows no bounds and is still useful today. Twains was a man out of his time. “Advice to Youth,” written more than a hundred years ago, still carries an important message. It's witty, sarcastic and above all good advice. Since this speech is still relevant today, it shows how well Twain mastered the skills he talks about. Twain speaks from experience and a place of wisdom. Works Cited “Symbolism of the Lark”. Lark symbolism. Np, and Web. December 9, 2013. “A Life Lived in a Rapidly Changing World: Samuel L. Clemens‚ 1835-1910.” » Welcome to the Mark Twain House and Museum. Np, and Web. December 7, 2013.Peterson, Linda. The Norton Reader: A nonfiction anthology. 13th ed. New York: WW Norton &, 2012. Print.