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The nearest friends can go With anyone to death, comes so far short They might as well not try to go at all. No, from the time when one is sick to death, One is alone, and he dies more alone. Friends make pretence of following to the grave, But before one is in it, their minds are turned And making the best of their way back to life And living people, and things they understand.

Robert Frost#6

DeathFriendshipLoneliness

About this quote

What does it mean?
Friends may promise to stay until death, but in reality, illness isolates us and true companionship fades.
In plain terms
Friends often leave when you truly need them.
What can you take from it?
Prepare for solitude and cherish genuine support.

Where it applies

  • terminal illness
  • end‑of‑life moments

Putting it to work

  • strengthen deep bonds early

Questions to consider

  • How can I identify true friends?
  • What can I do to avoid feeling alone?

Another view

Some friendships are indeed lasting; this is a pessimistic view.

More from Robert Frost

  1. Home is the place where, when you have to go there, They have to take you in.

    Permalink to quote #5
  2. Most of the change we think we see in life Is due to truths being in and out of favor.

    Permalink to quote #7
  3. And nothing to look backward to with pride, And nothing to look forward to with hope.

    Permalink to quote #4

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