The Beginning of a Journey and the Pull of the Inevitable
The first episode of “Six Feet Under” sets the stage perfectly. Nate Fisher, the free-spirited, wanderlust-driven son, returns to his dysfunctional family’s funeral home in Los Angeles following the death of his father, Nathaniel. The contrast is immediately striking: Nate’s carefree past of backpacking, sexual exploration, and avoidance of responsibility clashes head-on with the rigid, often morbid, world of the Fisher & Sons mortuary. He is thrust into a situation he actively avoided, and this tension forms the core of his initial character arc.
The show’s genius lies in its ability to use death as a catalyst for exploring life. Nate, at first, seems resistant. He resents the family business. He chafes at the expectations of his brother, David, who embraces the practical aspects of embalming and funeral arrangements. His initial reactions are a mix of rebellion and ambivalence.
His evolving relationship with death, his acceptance of it, his growing understanding of the role of mortality, is a key part of his character journey. While at first, he grapples with the morbid aspects of the mortuary, and then gradually starts to appreciate the value and meaning the work has, the ability to give peace and comfort to people when they are grieving.
The Weight of Expectations and the Quest for Self
One of the most significant burdens Nate carries is the shadow of his father, Nathaniel. Nate is constantly measuring himself against his father’s legacy and, perhaps, trying to redefine that legacy. Nathaniel’s presence, even in death, looms large. The expectation of carrying on the family business adds another layer of complexity to Nate’s struggle. He is not entirely sure if this is the life he wants, yet his sense of familial duty pulls him toward a path he often resists.
His search for identity isn’t just a personal quest, it’s also a spiritual one. He seeks meaning, connection, and understanding beyond the confines of the family business, and beyond the material world.
His self-destructive tendencies emerge through risky behaviors, impulsive decisions, and a constant battle with his own inner demons. This constant self-sabotage contributes to his character, making him more relatable to viewers struggling with similar issues. He is not perfect, and the audience is allowed to witness him at his best and his worst. His vulnerabilities are not hidden; they are on full display.
Romantic Attachments and Their Effects
Nate’s relationships are as complex and flawed as he is. He is drawn to women who reflect his own search for depth and understanding. His most significant relationship, with Brenda Chenowith, becomes one of the central storylines of the series. Their dynamic is electric, volatile, and often deeply painful. Their relationship is a crucible, testing their emotional boundaries and forcing them both to confront their inner selves. The passionate, at times destructive, nature of their romance mirrors the internal struggles of both individuals.
Nate is drawn to Brenda for her intelligence and unconventionality. While she may be complicated, and she may drive Nate crazy, his own insecurities, his own search for meaning, cause him to be drawn in her direction. He needs that, and the show does a beautiful job in letting us see that.
Lisa, on the other hand, offers a different perspective on commitment and family. Her relationship offers a glimpse into another possibility, of a different type of relationship. But, it too, is not without its own challenges. These various relationships provide insight into his desires, his fears, and the ongoing evolution of his identity. The women in his life reflect different facets of his character, his aspirations, and his insecurities. Each relationship provides an opportunity to examine different sides of Nate and learn what he is searching for in life.
Mortality’s Shadow: A Crucial Turning Point
Nate’s life takes an irrevocably tragic turn with the discovery of his arteriovenous malformation (AVM) and the knowledge that he is living with a ticking time bomb inside his brain. This diagnosis acts as a catalyst, forcing him to confront his mortality and alter the very nature of his life. Prior to the diagnosis, he had been somewhat detached and living in denial; however, this news demands that he reconsider everything.
The impact of the AVM is profound. It causes him to re-evaluate his priorities, to confront his fears, and to search for meaning with renewed urgency. He is forced to reckon with the fact that life is finite and that his time may be limited. He cannot pretend, he has to live.
The show presents a series of dream sequences in which Nate interacts with deceased loved ones. These sequences are both surreal and deeply poignant. They highlight the show’s willingness to blend fantasy and reality and provide insights into his innermost thoughts and anxieties about death. His growing acceptance of death is one of the most moving aspects of the show, his transformation from avoidance to understanding.
Growth and the Inevitable Conclusion
As Nate grapples with his illness, he undergoes a profound transformation. He evolves. He tries to become a better version of himself. His illness forces him to confront his flaws, to prioritize what matters most, and to learn to love more fully. He becomes a more present father, more willing to connect with those around him, and more accepting of the complexities of life.
His relationship with his children undergoes a significant shift. He realizes that his time is limited and dedicates himself to being the best father he can be. He cherishes the moments he has left and tries to impart to his children the lessons he has learned. He is determined to not let fear dictate the rest of his life.
His passing is one of the most heartbreaking, yet beautiful moments in television history. The final moments of Nate Fisher’s life underscore the fragility and beauty of life itself. His passing is a moment of profound sadness, but also of acceptance. It is a culmination of his struggles, his relationships, and his growth as a character.
Lasting Impression: A Timeless and Enduring Impact
Nate Fisher, as a character, is a powerful symbol of the human experience. He embodies the complexities of our lives. His character resonates deeply with audiences, precisely because he is so flawed and relatable. He is a reflection of our own struggles, our own desires, and our own fears. His journey speaks to the universal themes of life, death, love, and loss. The series itself is a meditation on the human condition, and Nate is one of its central protagonists.
The enduring legacy of “Six Feet Under” stems from the show’s unflinching honesty and its willingness to tackle difficult subjects with both humor and pathos. Nate Fisher’s contribution to this legacy is undeniable. He is an imperfect character, but because of that, he is real and he is unforgettable. The series would not have been the same without him.
Nate leaves behind a complex legacy, a character who lives and breathes. The show has left an impact on viewers that they will never forget. His relationships, his struggles, his triumphs, all combine to create a character that stays with us long after the credits roll. The story is timeless. The characters are all in various stages of evolution and development. Nate’s journey continues to touch viewers’ hearts. It’s the reality of the characters and their lives that makes “Six Feet Under” a timeless classic.
The Ongoing Significance
Nate Fisher’s story reminds us of the value of embracing the messiness of life. It highlights the importance of connection, of forgiveness, and the courage to confront our own vulnerabilities. The show explores the themes of love, loss, and the search for purpose.
The final moments of the series are both heartbreaking and beautiful. They represent the cyclical nature of life and the idea that death is not an ending, but a part of the journey. Nate’s story continues to influence viewers, prompting them to reflect on their own lives and to consider the legacy they want to leave behind. The show inspires viewers to appreciate the moments they have and to find meaning in the face of life’s inevitable uncertainties.
The power of “Six Feet Under” and the character of Nate Fisher lies in its ability to evoke empathy and encourage introspection. The show encourages its viewers to not only contemplate their own mortality but also to cherish the relationships and experiences that shape their lives. Nate’s journey is a testament to the beauty and fragility of the human experience. He reminds us that, in the end, what truly matters is the connections we make and the love we share.
