Of Friendship
Francis Bacon
Bacon wrote in an era when the new was beginning to overshadow the old, yet his essay reminds us of the enduring value found in time-tested things. The 17th century marked the dawn of modern science and exploration, but Bacon's affection for the proven highlights a wisdom that transcends the allure of novelty. In valuing aged wood, wine, friends, and authors, he underscores that depth and reliability often lie in what has been seasoned by time.