Why Did Walter White's Son Choose the Name Flynn in 'Breaking Bad'?

The captivating story of Breaking Bad delves deep into the complexities of Walter White and his son, Walter Junior (or 'Walt Jr'). One of the most significant and emotional character transformations in the series is when Walter Jr. decided to change his name to Flynn. But why did he make this decision, and what does it reveal about their relationship?

Walt's Role as a Father

Walter White started as an award-winning high school chemistry teacher, but his life took a dark turn as he turned to cooking and selling meth. This transition ultimately made him a bad father. His absence and constant lies led to a significant disconnection between him and his son. Walt Jr. often felt neglected and lied to by his father, which fueled his resentment.

As the series progresses, it becomes evident that Walt Jr. paid no attention to his father when he was home. His dad had become more of an 'asshole-dad' than a role model or source of pride. Additionally, Walt's typical 'dweeb' name—Walter—lacked the coolness and modernity that a younger generation might aspire to.

The Trouble with Nicknames

Nicknames at school are common, but it's entirely different when you carry them into adulthood. The episode where Walter Jr. embraced the nickname 'Flynn' showcases a pivotal moment of resistance against his father. Skylar, Walt's wife, overheard a conversation between his son and one of his schoolmates where the nickname 'Flynn' was used. Skylar, who despised Walter and regretted naming her son after him, saw this as an opportunity to spite him.

A Rebellion in the Face of Dissatisfaction

Walter Jr. lost respect for his father after he fell into a fugue state during the drug legal battles. This period of amnesia and disconnection from his previous life significantly influenced his decision to take on the name Flynn. When Walt went disappeared due to his supposed 'fugue state', Walt Jr. learned about the humiliating details of his father's actions, which included visiting a supermarket stark naked. This experience left Walt Jr. humiliated and further alienated him from his father.

Determined to distance himself from the nickname 'Walter Jr.', he adopted the name 'Flynn'. This change was symbolic of his refusal to accept his father's failed identity and his desire to forge his own path. The decision to change his name was an act of rebellion against the perceived failure of his father.

Conclusion

The choice to go by the name Flynn is a powerful narrative device that Breaking Bad uses to highlight the complex dynamics between Walt and his son. It underscores the importance of parental consistency, honesty, and the impact of a name on identity and self-image. Moreover, it serves as a cautionary tale for parents and guardians about the lasting impressions their choices can have on their children.

From a viewer's perspective, the Flynn name change is a poignant moment that reflects the broader themes of identity, loss of innocence, and the consequences of one's actions. In the end, it's a testament to how names and nicknames are more than just words—they can define the paths we choose to follow.