The poem describes the soul's ability to choose its companions, its "society," with an extreme and exclusive selectivity. This is emphasized through a few key elements:
* "Strict": The soul's choice is not casual or haphazard. It is deliberate and purposeful, even rigid in its focus.
* "In the strict way": The repetition of "strict" underlines the importance of the soul's discernment and its unwillingness to compromise.
* "The select few": This phrase highlights the limited number of people the soul deems worthy of its companionship.
The poem doesn't explicitly state *how* the soul makes its selections. It's left open to interpretation, but it suggests a deep, intuitive understanding of character, values, and purpose. The soul doesn't merely look for pleasant company, it seeks connections that resonate with its own essence and purpose.
The poem's message can be interpreted in various ways, but some common themes include:
* The importance of authenticity and self-knowledge: The soul knows itself and knows what it needs from its connections.
* The power of discernment: The soul is able to choose wisely and avoid superficial relationships.
* The value of true friendship: The few chosen are deeply valued and contribute meaningfully to the soul's journey.
This poem has resonated with readers for generations because it captures the universal human experience of finding meaning and connection in the world.