Has anyone heard, or does anyone use, this expression, or a variation thereof? What does it mean? I understand it's used in a popular reggae song, but I'm looking for earlier citations or more widespread usage.
Here's what Google brings up--the sixth one mentions "classic":
web page
Partly from inference and in this context in a UC Berkeley News article, it appears to mean providing, perhaps unwittingly, for something ruthless or contemptible (not that snakes are).
"Our jobs (teaching journalism) seem to be to fatten frogs for the snakes," says Drummond, noting the young reporters being hired just out of school by "multi-national, money-making machines."
Another example that comes to mind especially of late is paying for the UN.
That could fit what the phrase seems to mean.
~ v. [1950's] to prepare a victim (including oneself) for exploitation by a criminal or trickster-- Casdsell's Dict of Slang
It's a genuine neologism and for one, I'd appreciate any variations on this def--Thanks guys
Another example that comes to mind especially of late is paying for the UN. Could you please explain that a little more to me. I can't see the analogy/similarity with the journalists' school example, which makes eminent sense to me.
It does not fit the mould neatly but the idea is of providing a forum [within one's own borders, no less] for tirades from certain tin-plated dictators (these would be the fork-tongued serpents in this case). The sentiment is one of "This is not what we had in mind. Let's feed some NATO frogs instead."
