More than anything the trout symbolizes Donny losing his family. Donny catches Splendid once again when he is 12, but something bad happens. Splendid swallowed the hook and was clinging to his life. Donny does everything to help save him and eventually Splendid swims away leaving Donny worried about his survival. (Pg#107). That transfers into Donny’s life by symbolizing him worrying about his family. Ever since mom has died and dad got caught for drinking, Ms. Doomsday, a social services worker has been snooping around. Always showing up at the worst times, like when the kids had to sneak dad in when he showed up late.(pg#79-82). Knowing that his dad won't help anytime soon he takes it upon himself to keep the family together. Even his dreams
