Tom Sawyer

As I read The Adventures of Tom Sawyer I became more and more intrigued by Tom’s conniving and scheming ways. Although he is just a boy, it seems as though he has more than figured out how to manipulate the system. He constantly uses his “street-smarts” to dupe the other boys out of their deserved treasures. It is ironic to use the phrase “street-smarts” here since this story so obviously takes place in a simple, down-to-earth country town.

My favorite part of the story is the scene in the church where all the boys realize the fast one that Tom successfully pulled off to rise to the top. “The boys were all eaten up with envy—but those that suffered the bitterest pangs were those who perceived too late that they themselves had contributed to this hated splendor by trading tickets to Tom for the wealth he had amassed in selling whitewashing privileges.” (Twain 435) I found this passage to be rich with irony, trickery, and above all, entertainment. Not only was Tom able to swindle the boys out of their hard-earned tickets, but he achieved it through the tokens he received from tricking them into doing his work for him. Tom is constantly thinking on his feet and is able to use his wit to get ahead in life. His skill of being able to think outside of the box is a very powerful tool to have as an adult.

I also enjoyed the other boys’ reaction to the situation. It is obvious that they are always one step behind Tom, and the gravity of the situation did not dawn on them until it was too late. Although the kids despised his actions and felt themselves foolish, it is almost certain that they will revert back to looking up to him. He epitomizes the modern day, adult entrepreneur who everyone hates to love.