The Rebel Fish

Can we ever escape what we are and what we are destined to become? That's the question that is making itself known to me as I explore the very existence of fish. It is a question that finds relevance across the spheres of political and non-political human existence. For it makes its way through discussions of gender, class, race, truth and being. And as I explore even deeper into the significance of the fish, I find meaning in the idea of fish as rebel. Yes, you read that correctly! This humble and vulnerable creature has far more going on than can be seen on the surface. It's very existence challenges the human act of naming, of classification and in doing so challenges the sense of order that arises as a result of this. The fish as a rebel reveals a hierarchical thinking that has been used to dis-empower and subjugate those who don't fit neatly into a privileged category. Yes, this simple yet delicately complex creature is one of natures greatest rebels. Yet it is without voice. Indeed, who will let it speak? I hear you: just exactly how is it that a fish is natures greatest rebel? Well, for that knowledge you will have to wait.