The Fisher and the Fished

Story Summary
In "The Fisher and the Fished," a fisherman catches a small fish that humorously pleads for release, arguing it cannot benefit him since the gods do not eat fish. The fish suggests that the fisherman could attain divine status for his unique catch, prompting a reflection on worth and recognition. This short bedtime story offers inspirational lessons about humility and the value of all beings in a humorous way.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that sometimes, even the smallest achievements can lead to unexpected recognition and reward.
Historical Context
The story of the fisherman and the talking fish is rooted in ancient folklore and has parallels in various cultural traditions, including Aesop’s Fables, where animals often speak to impart moral lessons. This tale reflects themes of humility and the absurdity of ambition, suggesting that even modest achievements can be exaggerated by societal perceptions. The interaction between the fisherman and the fish also highlights the interplay between human desires and the divine, a common motif in mythology that questions the nature of success and recognition.
Our Editors Opinion
This story highlights the idea that small achievements or insignificant possessions may not hold value in the grand scheme of things, yet we often overlook their potential impact. For example, a student might feel discouraged by receiving a low grade on a test, believing it to be unimportant; however, that small setback could serve as a crucial learning experience that ultimately leads to greater success in their academic journey.
You May Also Like

Jupiter and the Birds
In "Jupiter and the Birds," Jupiter calls upon all the birds to choose the most beautiful one as their king. The jackdaw, disguised with borrowed feathers, initially impresses but is soon exposed, prompting indignation from the others. However, Jupiter praises the jackdaw's cleverness, declaring him king and illustrating a thought-provoking moral: that wit is more valuable than mere appearance, making this a memorable story with moral significance.

The She Goats and Their Beards
In "The She Goats and Their Beards," a unique moral story, the female goats request beards from Jupiter, sparking discontent among the male goats who feel their dignity is threatened. Jupiter permits the females to don beards but reassures the males that their true strength and courage remain unmatched, highlighting that external appearances do not define merit. This childhood story with moral reminds us that superficial similarities do not equate to true equality.

Avaricious and Envious
In the wisdom-packed moral story "Avaricious and Envious," two neighbors approach Jupiter, driven by their vices of greed and envy, leading to their inevitable downfall. The avaricious man wishes for a room full of gold but is tormented when his neighbor receives twice that amount, while the envious man, consumed by jealousy, wishes to lose an eye to blind his rival. This impactful tale serves as a creative moral story, illustrating how greed and envy ultimately punish those who harbor them.
Other names for this story
The Catch of a Lifetime, The Fish's Plea, A Fisherman's Dilemma, The Deity's Gift, Small Fish, Big Dreams, The Unlikely Encounter, The Fisherman's Choice, A Fish's Wisdom
Did You Know?
This story highlights the theme of humility and the absurdity of seeking fame for trivial achievements, as evidenced by the fish's humorous claim that catching a small fish would elevate the fisherman to god-like status. It underscores the idea that true worth is not measured by superficial accomplishments, but rather by one's character and actions.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.