In "The Friend," Sigrid Nunez explores the intimate connection between writing poetry and the act of prayer. Poetry serves as a personal expression, much like prayer, highlighting a private dialogue with oneself. This reflection emphasizes that both practices can be deeply personal experiences, not necessarily meant for public consumption.

Nunez suggests that sharing these inner thoughts is not obligatory; instead, the value lies in the contemplation and solace they bring to the individual. The concept of writing poetry as a form of prayer underlines its spiritual dimension, allowing for introspection and emotional release without the need for external validation.