“A Compass for the Young” is an extract from William Shakespeare’s famous play Hamlet, Act I, Scene iii. The passage presents the advice given by Polonius, the Lord Chamberlain of Denmark, to his son Laertes before he leaves for France. Just as a compass guides a traveller in the right direction, Polonius’s words serve as a moral guide for young people in life.
At the beginning of the extract, Polonius asks Laertes to hurry, as the ship is ready to sail. Before sending him away, he blesses him and gives him a few important principles to remember. These words are not merely a father’s farewell; they are practical instructions on how to live wisely, behave honourably and build a good reputation.
Polonius first advises Laertes to control his speech and actions. He tells him not to express every thought openly and not to act on immature or improper ideas. This teaches the value of self-control and careful thinking. He also advises him to be friendly, but not vulgar. Polonius wants his son to maintain dignity in social life.
Another important advice concerns friendship. Polonius tells Laertes to hold fast to true and tested friends “with hoops of steel.” This means that loyal friends should be valued deeply. At the same time, he warns him not to become too close to every new and inexperienced companion. Thus, he teaches the importance of choosing friends wisely.
Polonius also advises his son to avoid quarrels. However, if he is forced into a conflict, he should face it bravely so that his opponent may respect him. He further says, “Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.” This means that one should listen to many people, but speak carefully and only when necessary. He asks Laertes to hear others’ opinions, but reserve his own judgment.
The advice on appearance is also practical. Polonius tells Laertes to dress according to his means, richly but not gaudily. This suggests that a person’s dress should be decent and dignified, because appearance often creates an impression about character. He then warns him neither to borrow nor to lend money, because lending may spoil friendship and borrowing may weaken financial discipline.
The most famous advice in the passage is: “This above all: to thine ownself be true.” Polonius means that a person must be honest with himself first. If one is true to oneself, one cannot be false to others. This line expresses the central message of the passage: sincerity, self-respect and honesty are the foundation of a good life.
In conclusion, “A Compass for the Young” presents timeless wisdom for young people. Polonius’s advice teaches punctuality, self-control, true friendship, courage, careful speech, good judgment, financial discipline and honesty. The passage remains relevant even today because it guides us towards a life of dignity, responsibility and moral strength.
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