Summary: Be a Friend | New English Ferry: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets - Class 5 PDF Download

Summary

Edgar Albert Guest, an American poet, encourages us to be good friends without expecting anything in return. He emphasizes that being a friend doesn't require money or fame but a sunny disposition and the willingness to help others. The poem highlights the importance of simple acts of kindness, like extending a friendly hand to someone who may not have many friends.

Guest suggests that friendship is more valuable than wealth and fame. He encourages us to overlook small mistakes, appreciate honest efforts, and support those who are bravely trying in life. The poet believes that being a friend is a rewarding experience, much more than pursuing selfish goals.

In a friendly manner, Guest advises us to be understanding and supportive. He uses words like "disposition" (nature), "unbefriended" (someone without friends), and "trifling" (small and unimportant) to describe the qualities needed to be a good friend.

The poem encourages us to spend a little effort on the duties of a friend, as the rewards of friendship are greater than those achieved through self-centered endeavors. Guest concludes by stating that having friends is more valuable than being wealthy or famous, making the choice to be a friend a truly enriching one.

List of Difficult Words with Meanings

• Disposition: Nature or inherent qualities.
• Unbefriended: Someone who has no friends.
• Trifling: Small and unimportant.
• Gaze: Look steadily and intently.
• Endeavour: Attempt or effort.
• Bravely: Courageously or fearlessly.
• Pity: Feel sympathy or sorrow for someone's misfortune.
• Labour: Work or effort.
• Profit: Gain or benefit.
• Solemnly: In a serious and earnest manner.