Skip to content

Fishes do not roar; they cannot express any sound of…

“Fishes do not roar; they cannot express any sound of suffering; and therefore the angler chooses to think they do not suffer, more than it is convenient for him to fancy. Now it is a poor sport that depends for its existence on the want of a voice in the sufferer, and of imagination in the…” quote by Leigh Hunt
Download Open image
“Fishes do not roar; they cannot express any sound of suffering; and therefore the angler chooses to think they do not suffer, more than it is convenient for him to fancy. Now it is a poor sport that depends for its existence on the want of a voice in the sufferer, and of imagination in the sportsman.”

Leigh Hunt

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote suggests that observers often assume suffering without evidence, using imagination to justify their own entertainment.

In simple terms: People imagine suffering for their own benefit.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about others' pain.

Themes

empathy illusion ethics

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • wildlife observation
  • animal welfare debates
  • media criticism

Key Concepts

anthropomorphism spectatorship

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do we project our own feelings onto others?
  • How can we respect silence?
A Different Perspective

Assumes all observers are exploitative.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Leigh Hunt

Explore all 112 Leigh Hunt quotes

More Anglers quotes

Browse all 62 Anglers quotes