'A Friend in Need' Summary

A Friend in Need is a poem by Dora Sigerson Shorter that was first published in 1912. The poem is about the power of friendship and the importance of helping others.

The poem begins with the speaker describing a time when they were in need:

"When I was lost in darkness, And my heart was faint and sore, When I was weary, fainting, And I knew not where to go,

"You came to me like a star In the darkness of my night; You came to me like a harbor In the midst of the stormy sea;

"You gave me strength and courage, You gave me hope and cheer; You gave me a helping hand, And you led me to the light."

The speaker then goes on to describe the friend's help in more detail:

"You gave me a cool draught of water, When my throat was parched and dry; You gave me a warm blanket, When I was chilled to the bone;

"You listened to my sorrows, And you wiped away my tears; You gave me your sympathy, And you shared my fears."

The poem ends with the speaker expressing their gratitude to the friend for their help:

"I will never forget your kindness, I will never forget your love; You are a true friend, And I am grateful to you above."

A Friend in Need is a beautiful poem that celebrates the power of friendship. It is a reminder that we are all connected, and that we should always be there for each other in times of need. The poem is also a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life.