In "Standing in the Rainbow" by Fannie Flagg, a humorous comparison is made between the accomplishments of Saint Patrick and Thomas Edison. Saint Patrick is famously credited with driving snakes out of Ireland, an act that has become symbolic of his legacy. However, the quote suggests that his achievement pales in comparison to Edison's monumental impact on the world through his invention of the electric light bulb, which revolutionized daily life.
Edison’s contributions brought light to people’s lives, eliminating the darkness that was once commonplace. The contrast highlights how Edison's innovation transformed society, allowing people to move beyond the limitations of candlelight. Overall, Flagg illustrates the significance of Edison's genius in a light-hearted manner, reflecting on how different types of accomplishments can have varying levels of influence on humanity.