Internal Conflict:
* Rusty-James's Identity Crisis: Rusty-James is struggling to find his place in the world. He's haunted by his older brother's legacy and is constantly trying to live up to it, while also yearning for something more. He is conflicted between his desire for freedom and his loyalty to his gang.
* The Burden of the Past: Rusty-James is deeply affected by the death of his brother, Johnny Cade, which motivates him to seek out a dangerous and chaotic life. He's trying to cope with grief and the weight of the past, leading to self-destructive behavior.
* Moral Ambiguity: Rusty-James is torn between his desire to be "tough" and his inherent goodness. He's often conflicted about the violence and recklessness of his lifestyle, but feels trapped by it.
External Conflict:
* The Gangs: The story revolves around the rivalry between the "Greasers" and the "Shepherds," constantly on the verge of violent confrontations. The threat of violence hangs over Rusty-James and his friends, forcing them to make difficult choices.
* Society's Rejection: The Greasers are outcasts, facing discrimination and prejudice from the "socially acceptable" members of society. This constant rejection fuels their anger and rebellious spirit.
* The Search for Meaning: Rusty-James seeks to understand his brother's death and find meaning in his own life, a quest that leads him into a dangerous and ultimately tragic path.
Overall, the conflict in "Rumble Fish" explores the themes of identity, family, belonging, and the struggle to find meaning in a chaotic world. It's a story of self-discovery and the search for hope in the face of adversity.