How do you play pool?

Embarrassed I haven't a clue how to play pool?

• The problem is I'm a guy,nearly 20, and was in a bar/pub with my mates the other night, and they were playing pool. I have never played pool in my life, I don't understand the rules or object of the game. AllI see is guys hitting balls of different colours with a cue and some on them going into the holes. My mates then asked me to play the winner of their game, but I just said I didn't feel like it had had too much to drink, as I was too embarrassed to admit I hadn't a clue about pool. My dad never taught me when I was younger, as he always said it was a game he had no time for, and didn't like, therefore I have suffered. When I do learn, how do I start to get good at it,playing my friends and winning games? I'm not stupid,I am a unviersity student and can speak 2 languages but can someone simplify the rules and object of the game down for me? Also, should I have been taught as a kid, and do I have anything to be ashamed of?

• Answer:

  such a complicated question......pool is a game that you can practice for years and years and not get beyond the beginning stages....however for some it comes very easy and they make a lot of money hustling all around the world...no you have nothing to be ashamed of ....maybe your dad could not shoot pool and he was embarrassed to tell you that. you have to spend some time on the table to get good at the game...it is one of the most difficult games to master....if you watch some of the champions on you tube, you will see them do some phenomenal things..however reading a book and practicing on your own and getting a teacher are all ways to learn one of the most fascinating games man has ever invented..