The narrator encounters an aged beggar while walking. The beggar is seated by the side of the highway on a low structure made of rough masonry. The structure is built at the foot of a large hill, providing a convenient place for people to remount their horses after descending the steep road. The aged man has placed his staff across a smooth stone on top of the structure.
He has a bag filled with scraps and fragments of food, which he received as charity from village women. The beggar carefully examines each scrap of food with a serious expression. He sits on the second step of the structure, surrounded by deserted hills, and eats his food alone. As he tries to eat, his trembling hand scatters crumbs onto the ground. Despite his attempts to prevent waste, the crumbs fall in small showers. The small mountain birds are hesitant to approach and eat the crumbs, staying within half the length of the beggar’s staff.
The speaker then describes an old, solitary man who travels alone and appears helpless. People show kindness towards him, stopping to give him alms and offering assistance. The toll-gate attendant, post-boy, and even the waggon pass him by without causing any harm or disturbance. The old man’s eyes are always focused on the ground as he walks, unaware of the surrounding scenery. He carries a staff and moves quietly, causing even the barking dogs to grow weary of him. People of all ages and occupations, from boys and girls to maids and youths, simply pass him by without much notice.
The speaker emphasizes that even the seemingly useless or insignificant individuals, like beggars, have a purpose in society and should not be disregarded. It highlights the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of every form of life, no matter how lowly or noxious. The actions of the beggar, such as going from door to door, serve as a reminder of past acts of charity and help keep kindness alive in people’s hearts.
The speaker suggests that acts of love and habit can lead to virtue and true goodness, even without conscious reasoning. It acknowledges that some individuals, through their good works and kindness, have been influenced by encounters with beggars in their childhood, fostering empathy and a sense of connection with a world of want and sorrow.
The beggar serves as a silent reminder to those who are prosperous and sheltered, prompting them to reflect on their own blessings and privileges. Although the beggar may not directly provide fortitude or guidance to others, his presence alone serves as a reminder of the value of their present blessings.
The speaker acknowledges the existence of individuals who lead virtuous lives and abide by moral laws without feeling any self-reproach. These individuals are praised for their adherence to the Decalogue (Ten Commandments) and their acts of love and tenderness towards their family and kin. However, the speaker raises a question about the poor and asks if their lives of abstinence from evil deeds and acts of charity are enough to satisfy their souls. It suggests that even the poorest individuals long for moments when they can feel that they have been able to provide blessings and kindness to others, as they understand the value of human connection. The speaker highlights the story of a specific poor individual, referred to as “My Neighbour,” who demonstrates this understanding of human connection. Despite her own needs, she consistently sets aside a portion of her meal to give to an old beggar. This act brings her joy and hope for a better future.
The speaker expresses a blessing for the beggar who is isolated and lives for themselves in solitude. This person is encouraged to carry the goodness bestowed upon them by the benevolent law of Heaven.The beggar is also encouraged to inspire and guide the uneducated villagers towards acts of kindness and contemplation.
The speaker wishes for the beggar to continue enjoying the freshness of the valleys, even in old age, and to endure the challenges of nature. The hope that gives meaning to this person’s life is revered and considered the last human interest in their heart. The speaker hopes that this person is never confined by the noise and busyness of industrialized society, but instead experiences the natural silence of old age.
He should be free to enjoy the solitude of mountains and the pleasant melodies of woodland birds, whether they are consciously aware of them or not. Despite their limited pleasures, the speaker hopes that this person can still find joy in the simple things, such as witnessing the light of the sun and sharing meals with birds. Ultimately, the speaker wishes for this person to live and die in harmony with nature, as he has lived his entire life.
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