Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Big Fish, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Ambition, Courage, and Personal Fulfilment
Truth, Myth, and Immortality
Love, Flaws, and Acceptance
The Redemptive Power of Laughter
Summary
Analysis
William explains that Sandra’s father (Mr. Templeton) is a hairless farmer who adores Sandra. In his senile old age, Mr. Templeton even thinks Sandra hung the moon for him. Edward and Sandra are nervous because they eloped without telling her father and are driving to her childhood home to meet the parents. Sandra’s father rides up on horseback as Sandra introduces Edward as the man she’s married. Her father starts shaking, looks deep into Edward’s eyes, and bursts into laughter.
Despite his senility, Sandra’s father loves her deeply and displays some of the whimsy and magic that might explain why she is drawn to Edward. Edward’s nervousness reminds the reader that his courage comes from overcoming fear, rather than lacking fear.
Themes
When they go inside, Edward explains—with carefully thought out “simple, yet profound words”—that he loves Sandra and he’s going to take care of her. Mr. Templeton is oblivious, however, as he’s busy recalling that he knew a man named Bloom when he was in the cavalry. Edward compliments Mr. Templeton’s horse, and Mr. Templeton is pleased. He spends the rest of the day talking about the cavalry and explaining that Jesus went to Oxford University, before shaking hands to say goodbye without mentioning the marriage, which he appears to have forgotten about.
Edward displays his knack for saying just the right thing with his “simple, yet profound words” that also expose his fiercely loving and protective nature (which is obvious to Sandra, but something William initially overlooks). The juxtaposition of Edward’s seriousness and Mr. Templeton’s silliness adds weight to Edward’s statement and exposes the deep bond of love between Edward and Sandra.
Themes
