Gift of Friendship Once the ball is opened, It must be filled once more. Then passed on to another, According to folklore. From one friend to another, This gift of love extends, Creating an unbreakable bond, Between our circle of friends.

"The Ball Poem" by John Berryman is a poignant poem that explores the theme of loss and the importance of cherishing the moments of joy and friendship in life. While the poem does not explicitly mention friendship, it indirectly addresses the significance of friendship through the metaphor of the ball.


In the poem, the ball represents the joys and experiences of life, particularly the moments of friendship and connection. Just like a ball, friendships can be lively, dynamic, and full of energy. They bring happiness and laughter to our lives, much like playing with a ball.


The poem describes a young boy who loses his ball, and the sense of loss and sadness he experiences. This loss can be interpreted as a metaphor for the loss of friendships or the fleeting nature of relationships. Just as the boy's ball slips through his fingers, friendships can sometimes slip away or be lost due to various circumstances.


Through the loss of the ball, the poem teaches us the importance of appreciating and valuing the people and friendships in our lives. The boy's initial excitement and carefree attitude towards the ball turns into a realization of its significance only after he loses it. Similarly, we often take our friendships for granted until we experience their absence or loss.


"The Ball Poem" reminds us to cherish the moments we have with our friends, to invest time and effort into nurturing these relationships. It encourages us to be grateful for the joy and support that friendships bring, as they can bring immense happiness and comfort throughout our lives.


Friendship is indirectly related to "The Ball Poem" through its exploration of loss and the value of cherishing the moments of joy and connection in life. The poem teaches us to appreciate the presence of friends and the significance they hold in our lives. By recognizing the fleeting nature of relationships, we are reminded to invest in and nurture our friendships, ensuring their longevity and continued happiness.