The Lover Pleads with His Friend
For Old Friends
The Lover Pleads with His Friend - meaning Summary
Love's Plea for Remembrance
A speaker urges a beloved enjoying youth and public admiration to remain humble and remember long-standing friends. The poem contrasts the transitory nature of beauty and social praise with the lasting value of intimate bonds. The speaker warns that time will erode outward charms — when public attention fades, only faithful, inner eyes will remain to witness the person they once were. It is a plea for loyalty and perspective.
Read Complete AnalysesThough you are in your shining days, Voices among the crowd And new friends busy with your praise, Be not unkind or proud, But think about old friends the most: Time's bitter flood will rise, Your beauty perish and be lost For all eyes but these eyes.
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