William E. Stafford's "A Ritual to Read to Each Other" is a contemplative poem about the importance of genuine communication and understanding in human relationships. Stafford highlights the consequences of miscommunication, urging readers to remain mindful of each other's true intentions. The poem uses the metaphor of a traveler lost in the wrong direction to emphasize how easily people can become disconnected when they fail to listen carefully to one another.

Stafford suggests that if we do not "read" each other's signals properly, we may lead ourselves into isolation or misunderstanding. He calls for empathy, clarity, and the shared responsibility of staying connected to avoid losing sight of one another in the complexities of life. Ultimately, the poem advocates for deeper human connection, built on honest, attentive dialogue.