In the painting, The Poor Fisherman by Pierre Puvis de Chavanne many different themes coincide within the painting's array of color. Many good qualities are displayed. Some examples are the qualities of peacefulness, hope, and love. This good is conveyed through the colors the artist uses. The way he positions the people in the painting, the expressions shown on the people's faces, and the body language they seem to possess reinforce the theme of goodness. .
Pierre Puvis de Chavanne spreads the goodness of peacefulness throughout this painting in several different instances. An example of this solitude of peace is in the boat's reflection bouncing off the top of the water. The way the water seems to drift smoothly along the sides of the boat indicates tranquillity in the center of the painting. Another aspect of where the painting displays calmness is how the woman seems to be lackadaisically picking the flowers without any sort of distraction. The baby that is lying down in the midst of its surrounding with a sense of comfort on its face firmly shows some characteristics of peace. The mellow atmosphere adds to the woman picking flowers tenderly and allows the baby to be content. Yet another example of restfulness comes from a man with a sleepy look on his face. The man facing downward suggests he is at ease in the painting. The fairly clear, mellow sky portrays some area of relaxation. .
Hope is located in a few different areas. A fisherman waiting aimlessly in the water is always hoping to catch something. The fisherman is standing which signifies he believes that a fish will soon be available to reel in. The fisherman here shows a sense of assurance by not giving up on catching some fish, for he knows he must feed the family. The ropes being anchored well shows the fisherman has confidence in his catching of fish close to the shore. The mother has hope by picking the flowers, which she may be making a soft bed for the baby to sleep more comfortably on.
