Which two lines in this excerpt from Elizabeth Bishop's "The Fish" suggest that the speaker respects the fish?

A green line, frayed at the end

where he broke it, two heavier lines,

and a fine black thread

still crimped from the strain and snap

when it broke and he got away.

Like medals with their ribbons

frayed and wavering,

a five-haired beard of wisdom

trailing from his aching jaw.

Question

English

Ezekiel Ryan

19 January, 18:45

Which two lines in this excerpt from Elizabeth Bishop's "The Fish" suggest that the speaker respects the fish?

A green line, frayed at the end

where he broke it, two heavier lines,

and a fine black thread

still crimped from the strain and snap

when it broke and he got away.

Like medals with their ribbons

frayed and wavering,

a five-haired beard of wisdom

trailing from his aching jaw.

+1

Answers (2)

Know the Answer?

Carly Hayden · Answer 1

Like medals with their ribbons

a five-haired beard of wisdom

Explanation:

These are the lines that suggest that the speaker respects the fish in this poem. In the poem, we learn that the fish was able to break some lines, and these can still be found in his mouth. The author describes the lines as "medals" and the trail as a "beard of wisdom." Both of these phrases are positive and convey a sense of respect and admiration for the fish.

Marisol · Answer 2

Like medals with their ribbons

a five-haired beard of wisdom