1 Facebook Group: English Learning (Department of English) National University of Bangladesh

2. Why do people get fascinated to tell lies?

In Francis Bacon’s essay Of Truth, he explains why people are often fascinated to tell lies instead
of speaking the truth. According to him, people naturally love lies because lies are more attractive
and interesting than truth. Truth is often simple and plain, but lies can be made colourful, creative,
and entertaining.

One main reason people tell lies is to gain personal benefit. Some people lie to avoid punishment,
to hide their mistakes, or to get something they want. Lies can help them escape difficult situations
for a short time, so they feel attracted to it.

Another reason is that lies can make a person look better in front of others. People sometimes lie
to gain respect, praise, or attention. They think that truth may make them look weak, so they
choose false stories to impress others.

Bacon also suggests that human nature enjoys imagination more than reality. Truth is stable and
honest, but it can feel less exciting. On the other hand, lies can be shaped in many ways, so people
find them more enjoyable and fascinating.

However, Bacon clearly supports truth. He says truth is noble and strong, even if it is not always
pleasant. Lies may give temporary pleasure, but they harm a person in the long run. Overall,
people are fascinated by lies because of personal gain, social image, and attraction to imagination.
But Bacon warns that truth is always more valuable and important than lies.

2. What, according to Bacon, are the disadvantages of having a great place in life?

In Francis Bacon’s essay Of Great Place, he explains that a high position in life brings not only
advantages but also many disadvantages. A person in a great place has power and respect, but he
also faces many problems and responsibilities.

First, Bacon says that people in high positions lose their personal freedom. They cannot live a
simple or private life. They must always act carefully because many people watch their actions.
This creates pressure and stress.

Second, a person in a great place has heavy responsibilities. He must take important decisions
that affect many people. If he makes a mistake, many others may suffer. So, the fear of failure
always remains in his mind.

Third, Bacon explains that such people often face jealousy and criticism. Others may not like
their success and may try to harm their reputation. This makes their life uncomfortable and tense.

Fourth, a high position can also bring corruption or pride. Some people become overconfident or
misuse their power. This may lead to their downfall.

Finally, Bacon shows that great place gives less time for peace and personal happiness. A person
becomes busy with duties and public work, so he cannot enjoy a peaceful and relaxed life. Overall,

Noted by Tanvir Toha

Bacon suggests that although a great place in life gives honour and authority, it also brings
pressure, responsibility, lack of freedom, and mental stress. Therefore, it is both a blessing and a
burden.

2. “It is impossible to love and be wise.” Explain.

In his essay Of Love, Francis Bacon says that “It is impossible to love and be wise.” By this, he
means that when a person falls deeply in romantic love, strong emotions often control his mind.
Because of these emotions, he may not think clearly or make wise decisions.

According to Bacon, love can make people forget their duties and responsibilities. A person in
love may spend too much time thinking about the one he loves and ignore work, study, or
important tasks. He may also make decisions based on feelings instead of reason. This can lead
to mistakes and disappointment.

Bacon believes that wise people should control their emotions. They should use logic and good
judgment in every situation. But when love becomes too powerful, it can weaken self-control and
make even intelligent people act foolishly. That is why he says that perfect wisdom and passionate
love do not easily exist together.

He also warns that leaders and successful people should not allow love to rule their lives. If they
become slaves to emotion, they may lose respect, make poor choices, and fail in their duties.

However, Bacon does not say that all love is bad. He only criticizes excessive and blind love. He
thinks that love should stay within limits and should not control a person’s mind. Overall, Bacon’s
statement means that deep romantic love can cloud judgment and reduce wisdom. A person can
remain truly wise only when reason is stronger than uncontrolled emotion.

Noted by Tanvir Toha