Reread polonius's "farewell speech" to laertes in act i, scene iii of hamlet and then interpret, thought by thought, this "fatherly advice" to a son returning to college. you need not write a paragraph; instead, use complete sentences to make a numbered list of your interpretation of each thought as it occurs in the text. there are eleven proverb-like thoughts in this speech.

1. don't be too quick to speak up your mind. hastiness can be a great obstacle in life.2. don't be too quick to act upon your thoughts. it's imprudent and thoughtless.3. it's best to have the right measure in dealing with people. being familiar is great, but too much familiarity can do you harm.4. don't be too quick to make friends. it's better to have a handful of friends who have earned your trust than to make superficial friendships with many shallow people.5. conflicts should be avoided; however, if you can't avoid them, try to act in a way that shows other people that you are to be respected.6. it's always safer to be a listener than a speaker. be eager to always listen up, but keep your thoughts to yourself.7. people are entitled to their opinions, and you should listen to them. however, you shouldn't judge other people publicly.8. clothes reflect who you are, so you should pay attention to your looks as much as your purse allows you. 9. be sure not to be showy, but elegant. the nobler your attitude is, the more refined your looks will be.10. be careful with money. don't borrow or lend money because it destroys friendships and empties up your purse.11. above everything else, be true to yourself, as that's the only way to be true to everybody.