The novel and film are titled Rumble Fish because this term is the nickname given to Siamese fighting fish, which are central to the story's themes and symbolism.
The Significance of the "Rumble Fish" Nickname
The name "Rumble Fish" directly refers to the Siamese fighting fish, scientifically known as Betta splendens. These beautiful yet aggressive fish are famous for their combative nature, often fighting to the death when placed together. In the narrative, these fish are a key recurring motif.
- Origin of the Name: The title originates from the common nickname for these aquatic animals, highlighting their inherent combative and territorial nature.
- Symbolic Representation: The author, S.E. Hinton, uses these fish as a powerful metaphor. Their characteristics—their stunning appearance, their isolation when kept individually, and their instinctual drive to fight—are intended to reflect the personalities and circumstances of the brothers who are the main characters.
A Metaphor for Character and Conflict
The "Rumble Fish" serve as a deep symbolic representation of the protagonists, particularly Motorcycle Boy, who shares many traits with these isolated yet violent creatures.
- Isolation and Beauty: Like the fish confined to a tank, the characters often feel trapped within their environment and circumstances, struggling with a sense of isolation despite their striking presence.
- Inherent Aggression: The fish's fighting instinct directly mirrors the violent tendencies and conflicts prevalent in the characters' lives and their gang-related world. The constant threat of violence and the characters' own propensity for it are reflected in the fish's nature.
- Destructive Nature: The image of these fish fighting to the death can be seen as a parallel to the self-destructive paths some characters take or the inevitable, often tragic, clashes they face within their harsh reality.
By titling the work Rumble Fish, the author immediately establishes a central metaphor that encapsulates themes of conflict, isolation, and the inherent nature of its characters, all through the compelling imagery of these captivating yet aggressive aquatic animals.
