Thursday, November 18, 2010

Fish Dreams

These fish live in a tank in a restaurant. I wonder if they have ever swum in a real stream or a lake.

Are they like the lobsters in the supermarket, kept apart from their home waters? I search their faces, but I can’t tell the answer.

They make me think of all immigrants and expatriates, who cherish memories of a more accustomed world.

9 comments:

Erik Bongers said...

You're getting in a Shaun Tannish mood, me thinks...

David Teter said...

I love the fish in the suit, he looks exasperated.

I read somewhere that the memory of a goldfish lasts only 3 seconds, so if true it wouldn't matter if they had swum in a lake or stream... in a tank they might think... 'Haven't I seen this before?... Haven't I seen this before?... Haven't I seen this before?'... much like Dory in "Finding Nemo".

Nick said...

Nice addition with the tail! Adds even more character.

Stephen Southerland said...

With regards to the goldfish's memory being 3 seconds, sadly it isn't true.

I offer this video for your information and amusement:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEQK4HbifTo

Kessie said...

"If I were a fishman ..."

Now I want to go stare at a fish tank for a while. There's just something so relaxing about the way they move.

Steve said...

Erik put it well, this post reminds me of The Arrival.

K_tigress said...

How weird, The Incredible Mr Limpid was on the other night. Hehe

I often feel like that guy. Wanting to be something else for awhile so I can get away from my life a bit.

My local Chinese Buffet also has a sad assortment of koi on display. I know those never have a long life and I notice after awhile they sport lots of tumors on their skin.

Oh and for some reason the thinking fish reminds me of sea monkeys.

David Teter said...

Thanks Stephen Southerland,

I wonder what else we hear that is myth.

And yes the video is both informative and amusing.

James Gurney said...

Steve and Erik, yes, I couldn't help but think of Shaun Tan's wonderful illustrated book about the immigrant experience——The Arrival, which I recommend to anyone who hasn't seen it yet.