Hero of the kingdom 3 big fish series#

No more stories,” showing that William thinks the stories interfere with his desire to know his father better.Īlthough William is dissatisfied with Edward’s tales, the tales themselves are not actually as meaningless as William thinks-in fact, they communicate a great deal about the values that Edward wishes to pass on to his son. William similarly implores Edward to talk “man to man, father to son. Exasperated, William says, “I don’t want to hear about her anymore, Dad,” implying that William feels the fantastical elements in Edward’s stories deflect from the facts about Edward’s life. William expresses frustration at hearing yet another story about a two-headed lady while Edward is on his deathbed. Rather, they serve a profound purpose by imbuing their heroes with a kind of immortality and rendering their life lessons memorable long after they are gone.Īt the beginning of Big Fish, William thinks that Edward’s fabricated stories leave him feeling like he doesn’t “really know” his father, highlighting William’s initial belief that myths are pointless. Author Daniel Wallace thus communicates that myths aren’t merely “stupid” stories that deflect the truth, like William initially assumes.

And because Edward’s stories are so memorable, William is able to retain the lessons they transmit long after Edward dies. Eventually, however, William realizes that Edward’s stories communicate many things about Edward as a person and what he wants what lessons he wants to impart on his son. William thus dismisses Edward’s tales as “stupid” stories that mask the truth about Edward’s life experience. William feels disconnected from his father, who prefers to make up tales instead of talking plainly and honestly about his experiences, feelings, and values. William narrates these stories to the reader while reflecting on his relationship with his father.

The tales depict Edward as a legendary hero who faces challenging adversaries (like giants and beasts) and overcomes them using his wits, charm, and strength.

Hero of the kingdom 3 big fish series#

In Big Fish, Edward Bloom transforms his life story into a series of metaphorical tales in order to teach his son, William, important life lessons.