Question

read/write Google groups or Usenet with bash

Answer 1

For newsgroups, Use Emacs and gnus. You can probably use Lynx to browse Google Groups.

Answer 2

I find slrn.

Answer 3

If you specifically want to write a bash script, start with something like these:

• Bash Scripting Introduction HOWTO
• Download web pages in BASH

Answer 4

You can use links or lynx to browse web pages, including discussion groups from a text console. Links has better frame and table support.