Final answer:
The poem about solitude does suggest that friends may not always be as loyal during difficult times as when times are good, reflecting that during genuine hardship one often faces it alone despite the pretense of support from friends. Aristotle's philosophy reinforces this, distinguishing between perfect and incidental friendships, further illustrating the complexities of friendship.
Step-by-step explanation:
The poem about solitude indeed suggests that friends might not always be loyal during challenging times. According to the excerpt provided, it appears that friends can often be present during good times, but they may struggle to be equally supportive when one faces adversity or serious challenges, such as illness or the approach of death. In the solitude poem, it is expressed that friends may pretend to follow someone to their grave, but in reality, before the person is interred, their minds turn back to their own lives. The poem reflects a sentiment that in the most profound moments of hardship, a person is essentially alone.
Aristotle's view adds another dimension to the concept of friendship, distinguishing between perfect and incidental friendships. Incidental friendships are based on utility or pleasure and do not lead to virtuous development or contribute to one's happiness in a significant way. Conversely, perfect friendships have a profound impact, offering opportunities for growth and shared happiness. This philosophical stance provides a layered understanding of the value of friendship and supports the overall theme of the poem that not all friends may provide the same level of devotion or support in times of need.