Friend of my bosom, thou more than a brother, why wert not thou born in my father's dwelling?

Friend of my bosom, thou more than a brother, why wert not thou born in my father's dwelling?

Charles Lamb, a renowned English essayist and poet, was known for his deep and abiding friendships with many individuals, most notably his dear friend Samuel Taylor Coleridge. In his essay "Dream-Children: A Reverie," Lamb reflects on the idea of what could have been if certain individuals had been born into different circumstances. The line "Friend of my bosom, thou more than a brother, why wert not thou born in my father's dwelling?" speaks to the longing for a closer connection with a beloved friend, a sentiment that Lamb likely experienced in his own life.

Lamb's relationship with Coleridge was one of great importance to him, as the two shared a deep intellectual and emotional bond. Coleridge, a fellow writer and poet, was someone Lamb admired and respected, and their friendship was a source of comfort and inspiration for both men. In the essay, Lamb imagines a world where Coleridge was not just a friend, but a brother, someone who was even more intimately connected to him through blood ties.

The phrase "Friend of my bosom, thou more than a brother" suggests the depth of Lamb's feelings for Coleridge, highlighting the closeness and affection he felt for his friend. The use of the word "bosom" conveys a sense of intimacy and emotional connection, indicating that Coleridge was not just a casual acquaintance, but someone who held a special place in Lamb's heart.

The question "why wert not thou born in my father's dwelling?" reflects Lamb's desire for an even closer relationship with Coleridge, one that transcends the boundaries of friendship and enters the realm of family. By imagining Coleridge as a brother, Lamb is expressing his wish for a deeper and more permanent bond with his friend, one that would have been solidified by shared experiences and a common upbringing.

Overall, the line "Friend of my bosom, thou more than a brother, why wert not thou born in my father's dwelling?" captures the essence of Lamb's deep and abiding friendship with Coleridge, as well as his longing for an even closer connection with his beloved companion. It speaks to the power of friendship and the profound impact that certain individuals can have on our lives, shaping our experiences and influencing our sense of self.