Final answer:
Malcolm is using a metaphorical expression to describe his activities in Harlem as actively seeking opportunities or engaging in activities to benefit himself or his community.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Malcolm says he went to work fishing those Harlem corners, he is using a metaphor to describe his activities in Harlem. He is comparing his work in Harlem to fishing, indicating that he was actively seeking opportunities or engaging in activities to benefit himself or his community.