If you are asked to write an essay on the works by Voltaire, then selecting Candide is a great idea.  By writing about Candide, you can incorporate your interpretation of his ideas into your Candide essay topics.  Voltaire uses many themes in his works and you will have the opportunity to expand on them in your Candide essay.  Your thoughts and opinions are important and you can expand on Voltaire’s ideas as well.  It is important that you stay focused as you write and to make sure that your ideas relate in some way to the essay topic.  Be as candid as possible and most important, be yourself in your writings.