# XIX: Diamond’s Friends explained — At the Back of the North Wind

> Chapter companion for At the Back of the North Wind by George MacDonald.

## What happens

Diamond reflects on the nature of friendship with his father, arguing that anyone can be a friend if you choose to be theirs. He meets a gentleman while talking to the crossing-sweeper girl, who gives him a card promising a reward when he learns to read. Diamond gives his penny to the girl and learns about her difficult home life with her grandmother and her friend cripple Jim.

## Themes in this chapter

### Compassion and Service

Diamond's selfless act of giving his penny to Nanny and his inclusive view of friendship demonstrate compassion and service to others.

### Innocence and Wisdom

Diamond's innocent yet profound understanding of friendship—choosing to be a friend regardless of reciprocity—highlights his unique wisdom.

## Character check-ins

### Diamond

Shows wisdom in defining friendship as a choice, gives his penny to the crossing-sweeper girl, and receives a gentleman's card promising a reward for learning to read.

### Father

Engages in a conversation with Diamond about friendship, initially skeptical but moved by Diamond's perspective.

### Nanny

The crossing-sweeper girl who talks with Diamond and the gentleman, reveals her difficult home life with her grandmother and her care for cripple Jim.

### Jim

Mentioned as a crippled boy in Paradise Row whom Nanny supports with food.

### Grannie

Nanny's grandmother, described as wicked and cruel, known for her swearing and neglect.

## Key lines

> If I choose to be their friend, you know, they can't prevent me.

Diamond argues that friendship is a choice he can make unilaterally, regardless of the other person's response.

_Illustrates Diamond's philosophy of active, unconditional friendship._

> I've got a father, and mother, and little brother, and you've got nothing but a wicked old grannie. You may have my penny.

Diamond gives his penny to the crossing-sweeper girl, recognizing her lack of family support.

_Shows Diamond's generosity and empathy for those less fortunate._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_back_of_the_north_wind_se/chapters/xix-diamond-s-friends
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_back_of_the_north_wind_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_back_of_the_north_wind_se/chapters