Tramp and Fish by James McIntyre

Name: Tramp and Fish
Author: James McIntyre

A hungry tramp steals a large quantity of fish, driven by his desperation for food. He is quickly apprehended and brought before a magistrate to face charges of theft. During the proceedings, the judge inquires about the tramp's acquisition of the fish. The tramp claims he caught them himself, asserting his right to fish. The constable, initially believing the tramp to be a thief, is challenged by the judge, who points out that unless there is evidence of illegal fishing practices, the tramp has not violated any laws. The judge emphasizes the rights of individuals to fish, stating that the tramp's actions do not constitute a crime unless specific regulations are broken. The magistrate's ruling highlights the importance of understanding legal rights concerning fishing and the necessity of evidence in prosecuting theft. The tramp's defense rests on the assertion that he acted within his rights, and the judge ultimately supports this view, indicating that the tramp is not guilty of any wrongdoing. The narrative explores themes of justice, legality, and the moral implications of survival. It raises questions about societal norms and the treatment of those in desperate situations. The tramp's plight serves as a commentary on the intersection of law and human necessity, illustrating how legal systems can sometimes overlook the context of an individual's actions. The resolution of the case underscores the idea that survival instincts can lead to actions that, while seemingly unlawful, may not be inherently wrong when viewed through the lens of necessity.

By James McIntyre · First published 2005 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Fable · 254 words

First lines

A hungry tramp did long for dish, And he stole a big bunch of fish, But he full soon did come to grief, He was quick captured as a thief.

And brought before the magistrate, So judge he would pronounce his fate, Judge asked him how he came by fish, The thief said for them he did wish, The best fish ever came from brook, I own, my Lord, I did them hook, Said constable, he speaks what's true, And you must give the devil his due.

Then judge did constable rebuke, He owns fish if he did them hook, He has not broken any clause I know of in our fishery laws.

Unless you can show this reason, He has hooked them out of season, Your duty you have thus mistook, For man had right the fish to hook.

What this Textopian page supports

Tramp and Fish is listed on Textopian as a short story by James McIntyre, dated 2005 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: James McIntyre
Date: 2005 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Humor, Fable, Social Commentary, Narrative
Length: 254 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Humor — The narrative employs a light-hearted tone and absurdity in the situation of the tramp and the legal proceedings.
Fable — The story conveys a moral lesson about rights and justice, typical of fables.
Social Commentary — The text critiques societal norms and legal systems regarding property and rights.