In Denis Johnson's "Tree of Smoke," Skip observes the intense engagement of players who rush from the sidelines to participate in a chaotic yet exhilarating clash. These men embrace a rugged form of competition that is both violent and exhilarating, suggesting a fierce camaraderie among them. The scene depicts a raw, unrestrained physicality that symbolizes their commitment to the game and to each other.

This world they inhabit is depicted as one entirely separate from women and children, emphasizing a stark divide in experiences and life. The men, transformed into warriors and protectors, find a sense of identity and fulfillment through this energetic conflict, indicating the deeper themes of masculinity and the allure of violence within their environment.