Big Fish

Big Fish explores the relationship between a father and son and their journey to reconciliation. Edward, a charismatic traveling salesman with a fantastic sense of humor constantly tells the story of his life with a bit of embellishment and never really seems to take anything too seriously. Edward’s world is viewed through a lens of optimism that is infectious to almost everyone around him. His son Will, on the other hand is a wealthy businessman who seemingly can’t take a joke. Will constantly feels that his father’s tall tales are a means to hide his true self when in reality it is Will who refuses to acknowledge who his father really is. Will eventually learns that his father’s stories are slightly embellished for entertainment purposes but the people Edward met along his life journey are all real as are the lessons he learned. Bloom first meets Jenny in the town of Spectre when she is only 8 years old. When Bloom returns to Spectre the second time Jenny is 18 and tries to make a pass at Bloom. Bloom rejects her out of his devotion to his wife. Jenny represents temptation and Bloom’s resolve represents his integrity. In Spectre Bloom also meets Norther Winslow, a poet by trade who is a bit down on inspiration. When Bloom meets Norther for a second time he witnesses Norther robbing a bank. After the robbery turns out to be a failure Bloom tells Norther he can make more money on wall street. Norther takes his advice and later rewards Bloom for his helpful advice. The lesson learned from this is that as a general rule, helping others can yield untold rewards later on. Carl the Giant is another character Bloom encounters early on.  The townspeople fear Carl and believe he is trying to eat them. Bloom is charged with taking care of the giant and upon meeting him realizes that Carl is simply misunderstood. Bloom then suggests he move to the city where things are bigger and people won’t fear him. Bloom learns that people are afraid of that which they do not understand. 

Developing a distinction between fact and fantasy is an important thing in life. I believe that fantasy can motivate dreams and goals into fact and reality. Alternatively, believing in fantasy as fact and treating it as such can lead to untold pain and unpleasantries. Ultimately, distinguishing fact from fantasy relies on a heavy acknowledgement of reality. As long as you can discern the truth from fiction and fantasy can help achieve your dreams.

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