oh also @jakemorph maybe it has something to do with the fact that Gamzee was obsessed with miracles? and believing in miracles seems very hopeful? I havent read the comic in a while, but i remember my first reaction was surprise that he was rage, since before his aspect was revealed Gamzee seemed pretty chill. so even if Hope wasnt teased in the comic during that point, that initial contrast makes Gamzee ending up being Rage a bit of a subversive anyways.

Thats just my speculation tho i hope that makes sense rip