# XXI explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

The poet sits in a May grove, moved by the nightingale's mournful song, and reflects on the fickleness of fortune and the rarity of true friendship. He contrasts the bird's solitary grief with the indifference of nature and society, lamenting that flatterers vanish when prosperity fades, while a faithful friend shares in sorrow.

## Themes in this chapter

### Truth and Deception

The poet distinguishes between flattering foes and faithful friends, emphasizing the deceit of those who only appear loyal in prosperity.

### Beauty and Transience

The fleeting nature of fortune and the ephemeral joy of the May setting contrast with the enduring sorrow of the nightingale and the poet.

## Character check-ins

### Philomela

The nightingale, whose mournful song and pierced breast symbolize the poet's own sorrow and isolation.

### King Pandion

Mentioned as dead, representing the loss of all who once cared for the nightingale.

### Fortune

Personified as fickle, smiling then frowning, causing the poet's and the nightingale's downfall.

## Key lines

> Words are easy, like the wind; Faithful friends are hard to find

Promises are cheap and fleeting, but true loyalty is rare.

_The poet underscores the difficulty of discerning genuine friendship from empty flattery._

> If that one be prodigal, Bountiful they will him call, And with such-like flattering, 'Pity but he were a king'

If someone is generous with their wealth, people flatter them and wish they were royalty.

_Critique of sycophants who praise the spendthrift for their own gain._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_28_se/chapters/xxi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_28_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_28_se/chapters