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About this quote

What does it mean?
Johnson criticizes angling as dull compared to fly fishing, likening it to leading a fool on a stick.
In plain terms
He thinks regular fishing is silly and boring.
What can you take from it?
Choose hobbies with active engagement.

Where it applies

  • leisure choices
  • entertainment
  • criticism

Putting it to work

  • select engaging pastimes
  • avoid passive activities

Questions to consider

  • What hobbies do you find truly engaging?
  • Is simple recreation a waste of time?

Another view

Many people enjoy simple fishing.

More from Samuel Johnson

  1. Abstinence is as easy to me as temperance would be difficult.

    Permalink to quote #23
  2. What is written without effort is in general read without pleasure.

    Permalink to quote #25
  3. Books that you may carry to the fire, and hold readily in your hand, are the most useful after all.

    Permalink to quote #22

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