Friendship as a Balance of Solitude and Connection

Emerson compares his true friends to books that he reads deeply and then sets aside, revisiting them occasionally. This approach allows him to cherish the company of great individuals while also focusing on living his own life fully. He concludes the essay by describing friendship as an act of total generosity and magnanimity. Emerson encourages readers to embrace genuine friendship as something that can elevate both themselves and their friends, ultimately bringing divine qualities to their lives.