Wellesley High School
The video above is the teacher address at the Wellesley High School (Massachusetts) commencement, given by English teacher David McCullough Jr. It took place in 2012, but McCullough’s remarks are just as relevant, if not more relevant today than five years ago.

What is the great and curious truth of the human experience?

“The great and curious truth of the human experience is that selflessness is the best thing you can do for yourself.”

Who said climb mountains not so the world can see you but so you can see the world?

David McCullough Jr.
“Climb mountains not so the world can see you, but so you can see the world.” ― David McCullough Jr. Read more quotes from David McCullough Jr.

What technique does McCullough use to create his satire?

The techniques McCullough uses to create his satire include hyperbole, understatement, and caricature. Twain uses wit and hyperbole to exaggerate the advice he is giving. The reader believes that he is going to give serious advice. Twain gives the reader humorous advice, making use of his words earlier a bit ironic.

What techniques does McCullough?

McCullough is satirizing the education, and how everyone is no special. What techniques does McCullough use to create his satire? He is using hyperbole, understatement, and caricature.

Do you climb the mountain to see the world?

“Climb mountains not so the world can see you, but so you can see the world.” ― David McCullough Jr.

How you climb a mountain is more important than reaching the top meaning?

You need to honor the highs and the peaks in the moments — you need to prepare your life for them — but recognize the fact that the preparation for those moments is your life and, in fact, that’s the richness of your life. …

What are satirical devices?

Satire is the use of humor, irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to criticize something or someone. Satire often coincides with the use of other literary devices, such as irony, malapropism, overstatement, understatement, juxtaposition, or parody.

What is McCullough satirizing?

The issue McCullough is satirizing involves students being taught to excel in everything they do. He thinks that children today should not worry so much about impressing others and trying to be the best.

Who is David McCullough Jr?

David McCullough Jr. is an English teacher at Wellesley High School and the author of You Are Not Special: … And Other Encouragements.

What did David McCullough say in his speech?

Wellesley High School English teacher David McCullough Jr. defended the speech Tuesday on “CBS This Morning” saying he told the students what they needed to hear. “My intention was a little hyperbolic drollness to get their attention so they would be paying attention by the end when I told them what I really wanted,” McCullough said.

What can high school graduates learn from McCullough’s advice?

At a time when student protests are sweeping across university campuses, McCullough’s advice to high school grads offers a reminder to embrace selflessness.