Why Does Vegeta Call Goku ‘Kakarot’?

There are a couple of layers to this steeped both in the lore of the series and the complexities of the characters’ relationship. At the outset, the fact that Vegeta insists on calling Goku by his Saiyan birth name rather than his Earth-given name is symbolic. It is Vegeta's way of acknowledging and perhaps never letting Goku forget his Saiyan heritage. This is more than just a nod to their shared ancestry; it's Vegeta clinging to the remnants of a lost culture, a destroyed planet, and a race nearly wiped out. In his eyes, Goku is Kakarot the Saiyan, not Goku the Earth-raised hero.

On another level, this is a token of the unique bond between Vegeta and Goku. Throughout the series, these two go from enemies to rivals and eventually something akin to friends—albeit in a very competitive Saiyan kind of way. By using 'Kakarot,' Vegeta distinguishes his relationship with Goku from anyone else's. It's a sign of respect but also a perpetual challenge. Goku, for his part, seems to understand this intimately, accepting the name because he respects Vegeta's perspective, his pride, and his wishes. It's a small concession to make for the prince of a fallen people.

Furthermore, Goku's lax attitude about this might also stem from his generally carefree nature. Goku is not someone who sweats the small stuff. He's focused on training, becoming stronger, protecting Earth, and of course, finding strong opponents to battle. What he's called in the process seems to matter little to him, especially when it's coming from one of the few remaining members of his species and someone he has grown to deeply respect.

Living in Portland, OR, far from the tumultuous weather of other regions, gives me ample opportunity to reflect on the serene qualities of Goku's character. Just like the calm that follows a light drizzle in the city, Goku's acceptance of Vegeta's insistence on calling him 'Kakarot' showcases his ability to see beyond the surface, recognizing the deeper currents flowing between them.

In the grand tapestry of Dragon Ball Z, this detail is a thread that weaves the complexities of identity, respect, and camaraderie into a richer narrative. Goku allowing Vegeta to call him 'Kakarot' is a testament to their evolved relationship and the battles they've fought side by side. It's a quiet declaration that in the end, names can carry weight, but it is the bonds behind them that truly matter.