Quote of the day by Benjamin Franklin: 'Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing' - Life lesson on how to build a legacy explained by the American physicist and philosopher

Benjamin Franklin, who was an American physicist and philosopher, used to believe that being remembered required more than just wanting to leave a mark on the world. People can leave an imprint in others' minds either by creating something worth reading or by doing something that is worth writing about. Benjamin Franklin’s quote of the day is: “Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.”

Original version of Benjamin Franklin's quote

This quote of the day, published nearly three centuries ago, appeared in the May 1738 issue of Poor Richard's Almanack, a publication Franklin wrote and printed under the name of Richard Saunders.

Its complete version goes as, “If you would not be forgotten as soon as you are dead and rotten, either write things worth reading, or do things worth the writing.”


However, the saying was not entirely his own creation. Franklin adapted it from an earlier work by Thomas Fuller, Introductio ad Prudentiam, published in the early 18th century.

Franklin’s advice provides two methods to make a lasting impression. People can contribute by writing, by ideas and knowledge, or by actions and achievements others think are important enough to remember.

How Poor Richard’s Almanac Made Franklin Famous

Franklin published Poor Richard’s Almanac every year from 1732 to 1758. The pamphlet was a huge success in colonial America, with annual sales reported to have been as high as 10,000 copies.

Almanacs were popular at the time because they contained practical information for everyday living. Franklin's publication included calendars, weather forecasts, astronomical information, household advice, puzzles, jokes and moral observations.

The publication helped establish his reputation as a writer and printer while letting him to reach a bigger readership.

Benjamin Franklin's life outside of writing

Franklin was born in Boston in 1706. He did not have much formal schooling, but made up for that with a lot of reading and practical experience. He started his career in printing and went on to become a successful publisher, scientist, inventor, diplomat and political leader.

His contributions went far beyond literature. He carried out important experiments in electricity, helped found civic organizations in Philadelphia, and was a prominent figure in the American Revolution, including attempting to secure French support for the American cause .