Old Man and the Sea
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway is more than a simple short story about a man who catches a fish. Initially, the story doesn't seem that remarkable, but as one reads between the lines there is a deeper meaning that at first is unseen but with further scrutiny can be visualized through the symbolism that is apparent throughout the book. The main theme of this book is therefore much broader than first appears. The question of whether the main character Santiago, won or lost his battle sets the scene for the greater lessons of this novel, which relate to many of life's lessons. Santiago's struggles are mirror images of life's daily battles of winning and losing in order to get ahead, which can be evaluated through the metaphors of this story. One of life's battles that are represented in this story is the battle of over coming failure. When the old man set sail for eighty-four consecutive days and never caught as much as a small fish; but perseveres and wins relates to everyday predicaments all mankind must face as
Some life battles are won, and some are lost. This experience is similar and can be related to the daily challenges in life that seems to be impossible, the kind you just want to give up on and forget about. As in life one can lose things along the way, but the lessons learned through those trials will build the stamina that will lead to ultimate success. How many times in life does this happen to people? Everyday! It is like winning a battle, but not the war. This compares to most peoples response in instances that occur in life situations. There are hidden dangers that cannot be predicted. The character made a decision and went for it, at fist it seemed right and he caught his magnificent prize and thought himself a winner, then only a few hours later the fish was gone, "One after another came and finally took the head itself and he knew it was over. This novel conveys an understanding of life's challenges from a unique perspective. Another experience that occurred for the character was his long and grueling chase of his massive prey, the marlin. One of the concluding trials that take place in the novel is when the character finally achieves his goal of capturing the great fish, and then loses his prize to circumstances that are beyond his control. People must turn their heads from the unpleasant and strive to find success that they know can be achieved if they keep trying. Simply put, life is challenging and full of surprises but like the old man if one keeps trying, attaining success is doable!. Like the old man, people can feel like failures but still appear winners to those around them. People encounter this same feeling numerous times in their lives. It is like a roll of the dice, taking a gamble on every decision you make, anticipating the best but knowing that the worst can also transpire.
Common topics in this essay:
Ernest Hemingway,
won lost,
|