What messages does Twain give in his essay “Advice to Youth”?

Mark Twain’s essay “Advice to Youth” is more than just a humorous speech—it is a lesson in skepticism, independent thought, and questioning authority. He doesn’t just mock bad advice; he urges young people to recognize the flaws in what they are told and develop their own moral compass.

His core message remains as relevant today as it was over a century ago:
✔ Think critically about societal expectations.
✔ Recognize hypocrisy in those who preach morals but don’t follow them.
✔ Don’t just conform—ask yourself why certain rules exist.