Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[tisogai]

hi teachers, please tell me what the underscored part means.

When I was a teenager, I really hated compulsory education. I could never quite accept the idea of having to go to school while the fish were biting.

I guess it's not talking about actual "fishing".

Thanks so much.

[Philo Kevetch]

Hello Tisogai -

Sounds like it is about actual fishing. What is the source of the quote?
Philo

[tisogai]

Hi Philo, thanks for the reply. It is the beginning part of a story called "How I got smart".

Oh really? Actual fishing? Then, I guess it simply means that he didn't want to go to school while he was catching fish and having a lot of fun.

How does it sound?

Thanks.

[CP]

It means he didn't see why he should have to be in school when he could be out fishing. When the fish are biting, the fishermen want to be there to take advantage of it. It doesn't necessarily mean that the fishermen are there at the time.
_________________
You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb

[Philo Kevetch]

Yes, that is correct. If you change your sentence, you will see what CP means.

"....it simply means that he didn't want to go to school while he could be catching fish...."

What do think? Philo

[tisogai]

Hi Philo,

Oh yes, "He didn't want to go to school while he could be catching fish."

Thanks!