Tahar Ben Jelloun: 'Real friendship, like real poetry, is extremely rare - and precious as a pearl.'

Real friendship, like real poetry, is extremely rare - and precious as a pearl.

The quote by Tahar Ben Jelloun, "Real friendship, like real poetry, is extremely rare - and precious as a pearl," encapsulates the essence of genuine connections and highlights their scarcity and value. This straightforward interpretation recognizes the significance of true friendship and poetry, emphasizing their rarity and preciousness. However, let's delve deeper into the underlying philosophical concepts to add an unexpected twist to our exploration.Friendship, as a shared companionship, provides individuals with unconditional support, understanding, and a sense of belonging. True friendship goes beyond superficial connections and requires a level of vulnerability and trust. Similarly, poetry, as an art form, allows individuals to express their emotions and experiences through words, creating a deep connection between the poet and the reader. Both friendship and poetry have the ability to touch the soul, stirring emotions, and leaving a lasting impact.Now, let's introduce the concept of impermanence. Just as a pearl is formed through the growth and nurturing of an oyster, friendships and poetry require time, effort, and patience to flourish. However, pearls, like the friendships and poems they are compared to, are not indestructible. Time, circumstances, and even human fallibility can erode these precious connections. This brings forth the philosophical notion that even the rarest and most valuable elements of life are subject to change and impermanence.Yet, as we navigate through the ever-changing course of existence, we find solace in the realization that the scarcity and fragility of true friendship and poetry heighten their worth and significance. The rarity of these connections impels us to cherish them deeply when they are present in our lives. It reminds us to invest our time and energy into fostering genuine relationships, not taking them for granted.In contrast, the fragility of friendship and poetry encourages us to be adaptable and resilient. Just as oysters produce more pearls, we should be open to embracing new connections and artistic expressions. The impermanence of friendships and poetry should not discourage us, but rather motivate us to continue seeking and appreciating these rare gems.In the grand tapestry of life, friendships and poetry serve as reminders of our shared humanity, connecting us to one another in profound ways. They offer us solace in times of hardship, inspire us to see beauty in the mundane, and provide a refuge for our souls. Just as a pearl stands as a testament to the oyster's resilience, true friendship and poetry remind us of our own strength to navigate the complexities of existence.In conclusion, Tahar Ben Jelloun's quote powerfully captures the rarity and value of genuine friendship, akin to the preciousness of poetry. Their scarcity adds a layer of significance and reminds us to appreciate and nurture these connections when we encounter them. Furthermore, the unexpected introduction of the philosophical concept of impermanence enriches our understanding, prompting us to embrace adaptability while cherishing the beauty of what we hold dear. So, let us treasure the pearls of friendship and poetry, knowing that their existence is a testament to the magnificence of the human experience.