Loading...
The Fisher and the Little Fish
fable
1 min read
0 comments
0:000:00
Story Summary
In this classic moral story, a Fisher catches a small fish that begs for its release, promising to grow larger for a future meal. However, the Fisher values the certainty of the small catch over the uncertain potential of a bigger one later, illustrating the lesson that it is better to appreciate what you have than to risk it for something uncertain. This easy small story with moral emphasizes the wisdom found in concise moral stories and the valuable lessons they impart.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that it is better to value and hold onto a small, certain gain than to risk it for the uncertain promise of a larger reward in the future.
Historical Context
The story of the Fisher and the little Fish is a fable attributed to Aesop, a storyteller from ancient Greece whose works have been orally passed down for centuries and often serve to impart moral lessons. This particular tale emphasizes the theme of valuing what one currently possesses over uncertain future gains, a common motif in fables and folklore across cultures, reflecting human tendencies toward caution and practicality. Similar narratives can be found in various traditions, showcasing the universal wisdom of appreciating the present rather than chasing elusive hopes.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable highlights the importance of appreciating what we currently possess rather than risking it for uncertain future gains, a lesson that resonates in today's fast-paced world where instant gratification often overshadows long-term planning. For instance, a young professional might choose to leave a stable job for a potentially lucrative opportunity that promises greater rewards but comes with high risks; valuing the security of their current position could lead to more sustainable success in the long run.
You May Also Like
An Inflated Ambition
In "An Inflated Ambition," a corporate president enters a dry-goods shop and encounters a placard urging customers to ask for what they desire. Just as he is about to express his wishes, the shopkeeper directs a salesman to "show this gentleman the world," illustrating the irony of ambition and the moral that true fulfillment often lies beyond material wants. This easy small story with moral lessons serves as a thought-provoking tale for young readers, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s true desires.
ambition
opportunity
President
shopkeeper
The Eligible Son-in-Law
In "The Eligible Son-in-Law," a pious banker is approached by a shabby man seeking a loan of one hundred thousand dollars, claiming he will soon marry the banker's daughter, presenting this as the best security. The banker, unable to see the flaw in this scheme of mutual benefit, agrees to the loan, illustrating the themes often found in short moral tales that emphasize the importance of discernment and the potential pitfalls of blind trust. This folklore-like story serves as a motivational tale for personal growth, reminding readers to critically assess promises that seem too good to be true.
greed
deception
Truly Pious Person
Tatterdemalion
The Deceased and his Heirs
A man dies, leaving a vast estate that sparks lengthy litigation among sorrowful relatives. After years of fighting, only one heir emerges victorious, only to discover from his attorney that there is nothing left to appraise, revealing the futility of the process and the attorney's self-serving motives. This quick moral story illustrates the often-overlooked truth about value-based moral stories: that the pursuit of wealth can lead to disillusionment when true value lies elsewhere.
greed
ignorance
MAN
Attorney
Other names for this story
The Fisher's Choice, The Little Fish's Plea, A Catch of Wisdom, The Value of Now, The Fisher's Dilemma, The Fish That Got Away, Small Fish, Big Lesson, A Meal or a Future
Did You Know?
This story highlights the theme of contentment and the value of appreciating what we have, suggesting that it is often wiser to hold onto a small, certain gain rather than risk it for the uncertain promise of something greater in the future.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.