I.S.383 Shawanda Walcott
805 September 19, 2012
LA 9 Quotation Essay
PD.7
"We never appreciate the value of water until the well runs dry". The words in this quote, written by Benjamin Franklin, invite the reader to take a deeper more insightful glance into how possessions and people aren't appreciated until the realization of their importance or value. Through literature, the author uses symbolism, comparisons, and theme to evaluate the importance of appreciation.
The author, Benjamin Franklin, portrays meaning throughout the quote which relates to appreciating what you have. People don't realize what they have until it's gone. When it's gone, then you realize the importance of what you had. In a specific case in which the possession is a valued item, you tend to realize how much better off you were once you had it. Also, if what the quote was referring to specifically was a person, you sometimes realize you love or miss that person more than you expected to.
An illustration from Franklin's paper on "Water-sp...
English: US Postage stamp,Benjamin Franklin 250th ...
Benjamin Franklin 1767It doesn't necessarily have to be a death, it could be someone leaving a job or moving. For example, I had an apple iPod. I didn't really pay much attention to it. When I lost it, then I realized its value and importance to me. This quote is also based on taking every little chance you get. Taking risks could mean something as simple as trying new things. The author, Ben Franklin portrays different meanings throughout the quote which relates to appreciating what you have and taking risks.
The water and the "well runs dry" are two symbols that represent a friend, family member, or possession that is important to you. Franklin uses the water to represent the value of that specific person or possession to you. The well is used to symbolize the source...