Thomas Paine - The writings of | English Idioms and Phrases

Definitions

to encourage critical thinking and revolutionary ideas
To refer to the influential and thought-provoking writings of Thomas Paine, particularly his works that inspired the American Revolution and advocated for independence from British rule.

Examples of Thomas Paine - The writings of

Paine once said, "Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it."

This idiom, "reap the blessings of freedom", refers to the idea that those who enjoy the benefits of freedom, such as democracy and human rights, must be willing to work hard and endure difficulties to maintain these freedoms. In other words, freedom is not a passive state, but requires active participation and effort from its citizens. This sentiment is echoed in Paine's statement that those who wish to enjoy freedom must be willing to put in the necessary work to support and defend it.
In Paine's essay "The American Crisis", he wrote, "Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; but we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph."

This idiom, "the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph", emphasizes the idea that great achievements and victories often come at a high cost. It suggests that success is not necessarily easy or effortless, but requires persistence, hard work, and willingness to face challenges head-on. This statement is particularly significant in the context of Paine's writing, as it reflects the struggles and challenges faced by the American colonies during their fight for independence. Nonetheless, it illustrates the resilience and determination required to achieve great things, despite the obstacles in one's path.
In his essay "Agrarian Justice", Paine argued, "The earth, in its natural cultivable state, was the gift of God to the common ownership of the human race."

This idiom, "the gift of God", is a figurative expression that refers to something that is given or bestowed upon someone, particularly by a divine or supernatural force. In Paine's essay, he uses this phrase to emphasize the idea that the earth is a resource that belongs to all humans, rather than being owned by any individual or group. It underscores the notion that natural resources are not the exclusive property of one person or organization, but are instead a shared resource that should be used for the benefit of society as a whole.
Paine once wrote, "Experience hath shewn, that even under the best forms of government, those entrusted with power have, in time, and by slow operations, perverted it into tyranny."

This idiom, "perverted it into tyranny", refers to the idea that those with authority or power will often misuse or abuse it over time. It suggests that the natural inclination of those in positions of authority is to use their power for their own benefit, rather than for the benefit of others. This statement is particularly significant in the context of Paine's writing, as it reflects his concerns about the potential for corruption and abuse of power in government. Nonetheless, it underscores the importance of being vigilant and aware of the potential for power to be misused, particularly in the context of political systems and governance.
"Paine's pamphlet Common Sense was a real 'lightning rod' for the American Revolution. It provided a clear and concise outline of the colonists' grievances against British rule and sparked a wave of revolutionary fervor that helped pave the way for independence."

The idiom "lightning rod" here refers to something that attracts strong feelings or controversy, especially unwanted ones. It can also describe an object, person, or idea that diverts potentially dangerous or destructive forces away from other objects, people, or ideas. In this example, "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine became a lightning rod for the American Revolution because it attracted the strong feelings and controversy of both the British and the colonists. Additionally, it helped divert the potentially dangerous and destructive forces of colonial discontent away from other objects, people, or ideas, such as violence or submission to British rule.
"Paine's personal life was not without its challenges, as he often found himself in the 'frying pan' of difficult situations. For instance, during his time in France, he was imprisoned and narrowly avoided the guillotine, but somehow managed to escape and return to England."

The idiom "in the frying pan" here refers to being in a difficult, tense, or dangerous situation. It can also describe a person who is facing a current, pressing problem or obstacle, that is less desirable than an alternative, potential problem or obstacle. In this example, Thomas Paine's personal life presented him with many frying pans throughout his life, as he faced difficult situations such as imprisonment and narrowly avoided death by the guillotine.
"Paine's writings on democracy and human rights were ahead of their time, as he championed the idea that 'all men are created equal' long before it became a widely accepted principle."

The idiom "ahead of their time" here refers to an idea, object, or person that is innovative, futuristic, or progressive, but may not be fully appreciated or embraced until many years later. It can also describe a person, idea, or object that is ahead of the social, cultural, or technological curve. In this example, Thomas Paine's ideas on democracy and human rights were ahead of their time because they were groundbreaking and visionary, but were not widely accepted until many years later.
"Paine's later years were marked by poverty and obscurity, as he struggled to make a living and was largely forgotten by history. However, his impact on modern society cannot be overstated, as he was a major force behind the 'inheritance' of many of the values and principles that we take for granted today."

The idiom "inheritance" here refers to the transmission or legacy of something, especially a cultural, social, or intellectual heritage. It can also describe the legacy that is passed down from one generation to another, or from one society to another. In this example, Thomas Paine's impact on modern society represents an inheritance because he left a lasting legacy of ideas and principles that continue to shape Western culture and values today. His contributions in the areas of democracy, human rights, and social justice helped lay the groundwork for the modern world, and his influence can still be felt in many aspects of contemporary society.

Conclusion

The idiom "Thomas Paine - The writings of" is used to highlight the impact and significance of Thomas Paine's literary contributions, especially in promoting revolutionary ideals and challenging the status quo. It is often used to emphasize the power of written words in sparking social and political change, as well as to encourage individuals to think critically and question authority.

Origin of "Thomas Paine - The writings of"

The idiom "Thomas Paine - The writings of" originates from the prolific and influential writings of Thomas Paine, a political activist, philosopher, and revolutionary who played a crucial role in inspiring the American Revolution. Paine's works, including "Common Sense" and "The American Crisis," were instrumental in shaping public opinion and galvanizing support for independence from British rule. His writings advocated for democratic governance, individual rights, and the pursuit of liberty, making him a key figure in the history of political thought and activism. The idiom serves as a tribute to Paine's enduring legacy and the enduring power of his written words to inspire change and progress.