An Ocean of Stories : Tale From Iran
Three Fat Fish
Drawings by SEED student: Luiza Mendes do Carmo, Brazil
Retelling of story © Copyright 2006 Laura Simms
There were once three fat fish living in the same inlet. One was called Wise Fish, the other Clever Fish and the third was named Foolish Fish. They were the only fish that lived there, so they ate everything in sight. That was why they were fat. One day, two fishermen caught sight of the fish and were delighted, "We can catch those three fat fish" they remarked.
Wise Fish, who was always paying attention, overheard the fishermen and instantly swam away to safety, calling out a warning to his friends. Clever Fish heard the warning and saw his friend swim away. He realized something was wrong. He called out to Foolish Fish, "we must make a plan in order to escape." Foolish Fish was lazy, and he answered, "There is no hurry. I am going to the bottom of the inlet for a little nap. Wake me if there is real danger."
Clever Fish thought out a careful plan. He swam to each exit to see his possibilities for escape. Unfortunately, when the fishermen dropped their nets, there was no way out. Clever Fish remembered not to panic in an emergency and came up with another plan. He filled his mouth with smelly mud and floated belly up to the surface of the water. The fishermen spotted him and thought he was dead. Lifting up the fish, they curled up their nostrils in disgust, and threw the stinky fish far into the sea. Clever Fish spit out the mud, and swam away to safety.
Meanwhile, Foolish Fish remained asleep. He didn't wake up until the nets were around him. "You made a mistake," he called out, "My friends are fatter than I am. Take them." Foolish Fish was caught, cooked and eaten.
As for the fishermen they told everyone about the two big fish that got away, but no one believed them. And that is the tale of the three fat fish. It is best to pay attention!
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What is the silliest story you know about yourself?
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