Meaning: The quote "Fishing is a delusion entirely surrounded by liars in old clothes" by the poet Don Marquis is a humorous and somewhat satirical take on the activity of fishing. Don Marquis was an American poet, journalist, and author known for his wit and clever observations on human nature and society. In this particular quote, Marquis seems to be poking fun at the notion of fishing as a serene and honest pastime, instead suggesting that it is a practice surrounded by deception and falsehoods.

At first glance, the quote may seem to disparage the act of fishing and those who partake in it. However, a deeper analysis reveals that Marquis is likely using exaggeration and irony to make a broader commentary on human nature and the way we perceive certain activities and pastimes.

The phrase "fishing is a delusion" suggests that there may be a romanticized or idealized view of fishing that is not entirely grounded in reality. This could refer to the idealized image of fishing as a peaceful and idyllic activity, where individuals can commune with nature and enjoy a sense of tranquility. Marquis may be suggesting that this idealized view of fishing is a delusion, perhaps because the reality of fishing is far more complex and multifaceted than the idyllic image suggests.

The second part of the quote, "entirely surrounded by liars in old clothes," introduces an element of humor and irony. The image of "liars in old clothes" conjures up a vivid and somewhat comical image of deceitful individuals, perhaps portraying a caricature of fishermen as untrustworthy or unreliable characters. This playful exaggeration serves to highlight the contrast between the idealized perception of fishing and the humorous reality that Marquis presents.

In a broader sense, Marquis may be using fishing as a metaphor for human experiences and pursuits in general. The idea of a delusion surrounded by liars could be interpreted as a commentary on the human tendency to romanticize certain activities or aspects of life, only to be confronted with the messier and more complicated realities. The "liars in old clothes" may represent the inevitable imperfections and complexities that underlie our idealized notions, reminding us that nothing is purely idyllic or straightforward.

It is important to note that Don Marquis was known for his wit and satirical wit, and this quote should be understood within the context of his larger body of work. While the quote may seem to be a humorous jab at fishing, it also invites us to reflect on the nature of human perception and the ways in which we construct idealized narratives around certain activities or aspects of life.

In conclusion, Don Marquis's quote "Fishing is a delusion entirely surrounded by liars in old clothes" offers a playful and thought-provoking perspective on the nature of fishing and human perceptions. Through humor and exaggeration, Marquis invites us to consider the complexities and contradictions that underlie our idealized notions of certain activities, prompting us to reflect on the broader implications for human experiences and pursuits.