This quote implies that regardless of one’s status, wealth, or power, we are all fundamentally human with the same basic needs and limitations. The metaphor of a monarch sitting on his own “arse” serves to undermine the grandeur and pomp often associated with monarchy, reminding us that beneath the crown and the throne, the king is just as human as his subjects.

Franklin’s words remind us that no amount of external achievements can change our inherent human nature. We all have the same basic needs – food, water, sleep, and so on. Regardless of how much power or wealth one might accumulate, these basic needs remain the same.

This quote also suggests that power and status do not exempt one from personal responsibility. Just as a king cannot delegate the act of sitting to someone else, he cannot shirk his own responsibilities. In other words, every person, regardless of their position, must take responsibility for their own actions and decisions.

Applying this to today’s world, we might consider how often society places celebrities, politicians, or other public figures on a pedestal, forgetting their inherent human nature. The media often portrays these individuals as being somehow different or superior to the average person, but Franklin’s quote reminds us that they are fundamentally the same.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder to stay grounded and humble, regardless of our achievements or status. It encourages us to remember our inherent humanity and to take personal responsibility for our actions. It also suggests that we should not be intimidated by those who hold power or status, as they are just as human as we are.