Schroeder the Fisherman

Name: Schroeder the Fisherman
Author: Edgar Lee Masters

The narrative unfolds through the reflections of a fisherman who observes the natural world around him, drawing parallels between human behavior and animal instincts. He describes moments of simplicity and tranquility, such as feeding minnows and watching pigs interact, highlighting the competitive nature inherent in both animals and humans. The protagonist contemplates the dynamics of power and survival, illustrated by the way larger entities, like Christian Dallman's expansive farm, dominate smaller ones, akin to a predator consuming its prey. This observation leads to a deeper philosophical inquiry into the essence of humanity. The speaker questions the existence of a distinguishing quality in humans—be it spirit, conscience, or divine influence—that sets them apart from the animal kingdom. As the narrative progresses, the fisherman grapples with existential themes, pondering the nature of existence and the moral implications of human actions. He reflects on the societal structures that mirror the natural order, where might often prevails over right. The imagery of the natural world serves as a backdrop for these musings, emphasizing the cyclical and often brutal realities of life. The work ultimately challenges the reader to consider the complexities of human nature, the struggle for power, and the ethical dimensions of existence. It invites introspection about what it truly means to be human in a world where instinct and survival often overshadow higher ideals. The fisherman’s observations serve as a lens through which the reader can examine the interplay between humanity and nature, questioning the values that define civilization.

By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1905 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Literary Fiction · 186 words

First lines

I sat on the bank above Bernadotte And dropped crumbs in the water, Just to see the minnows bump each other, Until the strongest got the prize.

Or I went to my little pasture, Where the peaceful swine were asleep in the wallow, Or nosing each other lovingly, And emptied a basket of yellow corn, And watched them push and squeal and bite, And trample each other to get the corn.

And I saw how Christian Dallman's farm, Of more than three thousand acres, Swallowed the patch of Felix Schmidt, As a bass will swallow a minnow.

And I say if there's anything in man --

What this Textopian page supports

Schroeder the Fisherman is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1905 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Edgar Lee Masters
Date: 1905 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Literary Fiction, Nature Writing, Social Critique
Length: 186 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about humanity and nature.
Literary Fiction — The narrative focuses on character introspection and social commentary.
Nature Writing — The imagery and setting emphasize the relationship between humans and the natural world.