Short Fiction · Chapter
Equality explained
A parable about a little fish who appeals to the principle of equality before the law when threatened by a big fish, only to be challenged to act on that principle by attempting to swallow the big fish himself.
What happens
A parable about a little fish who appeals to the principle of equality before the law when threatened by a big fish, only to be challenged to act on that principle by attempting to swallow the big fish himself. Unable to do so, the little fish resigns himself to being eaten, illustrating the gap between abstract ideals of equality and the realities of power.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Control
The big fish's physical dominance over the little fish exemplifies raw power overriding any legal or moral claim to equality.
Illusion vs. Reality
The little fish's belief in equality before the law is exposed as an illusion when confronted with the big fish's superior strength and the practical impossibility of reciprocity.
Key passages
“A big fish overtook a little one and wanted to swallow him. The little fish squeaked out: “It is unjust. I also want to live. All fishes are equal before the law.””
A large fish caught up with a smaller fish and intended to eat it. The small fish protested, claiming that it was unfair because it too had a right to live, and that all fish are legally equal.
The little fish appeals to a universal principle of equality to argue for its survival.
“The big fish answered: “What’s the matter? I won’t discuss whether we are equal, but if you don’t want me to eat you, then do you please swallow me if you can—swallow me, don’t be afraid, I shan’t set on you.””
The large fish replied dismissively, refusing to debate equality and instead challenging the small fish to swallow it if it could, promising not to attack.
The big fish shifts the argument from abstract principle to a test of physical capability.
“The little fish opened his mouth and poked about trying to get the big fish in, sighed at last and said: “You have it. Swallow me.””
The small fish attempted to engulf the large fish but failed, and finally sighed in resignation, conceding that the big fish should go ahead and eat it.
The little fish's futile attempt and ultimate surrender underscore the power imbalance.