of deceptive appearances, and bridged the gap originally created between the narrator and the fish, the narrator now adopts a new perspective. This perspective is made apparent when the speaker addresses his boat as it symbolizes his ability to expand and take in all of his surroundings. This "rented boat" "leaking oil" from its "rusted engine" created a rainbow so beautiful that the fisherman became overwhelmed and released the fish. Here, the boat can be compared to the fish, in it’s initial imperfection, then to its final magnificence. The descriptive words allow the reader to again visualize the moment vividly through the eyes of the narrator. Bishop does an outstanding job in describing every moment in the narrator’s growing relationship with the fish. She creates, first, an image of the fish as a helpless captive and the reader is allowed to feel sorry for the fish and even pity his situation as the narrator does. The narrator’s relationship with the fish then grows to one of personal regard as he engages in further study and is able to look past his initial observation. The parting image of the rainbow offers a perfect way to drive home the process of aging as a dignified and even celebratory act. Not only is it a very optimistic image of color and gaiety, but the rainbow is traditionally paired with the concept of treasure once the end of it is reached. When applied to the intended message of the poem, it may be interpreted that Bishop is implying that nearing the end of one’s life is like nearing the end of the rainbow and accepting a reward for a life well lived....
