Everyone has certain challenges they must face in life. By overcoming these hurdles, people become stronger and able to move forward. In the suspenseful novella, The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, Santiago struggled against some very powerful forces and obstacles. Some of these obstacles were the strength and power of the marlin, his being alone at sea and the various shark attacks. Santiago was dealing with many things which impacted his life. All three forces proved a great challenge on his voyage, yet he did not give up. There were a few instances where these forces appeared to win out, but in the end Santiago was able to overcome these obstacles.
One of the obstacles that Santiago had to deal with was the strength and power of this great fish. When he first encounters the power of this marlin, he is overwhelmed. The battle continues on for hours, they into days as he tries to tire the marlin out. At one point the devoted Santiago says “Fish, you are going to have to die anyway. Do you have to kill me too?” (92). It is apparent that the nervous Santiago is tiring and he is starting to lose a bit of faith in himself. He realizes this great fish is bigger than any he has ever seen and he must prove to himself that he is up to the challenge. The patient Santiago’s great determination and sincere attitude prevails as he prepares to kill this monster fish, and show everyone that he is still a great fisherman.
At several times in his voyage, Santiago reminds himself that he wished Manolin was with him. When Santiago hand cramps us, he remarks “If the boy were here he could rub it for me and loosen it down from the forearm” (62). Eventually the cramp does indeed ease up, and he again realizes he can overcome this problem, and return to the task at hand. At another point as Santiago is feeling the pressure of this great fish, he comments “If the boy was here he would wet the coils of line” (83). Again, he is second guessing his noble abilities, but soon he is able to make his way. Santiago realizes he is getting old and doesn’t maintain the strength he once had, yet he is succeeding in his mission to catch this great one. It is also apparent that Santiago enjoys the compassionate boys company, but understands his presence isn’t necessary as he is indeed a great fisherman. He constantly is overcoming these obstacles and forging ahead with determination.
The incident whereby Santiago’s great fish is attacked several times by the shark is another horrible event that he must overcome. As he makes his way back to shore, towing the marlin, the fish is attacked by several sharks. He thinks quickly and reacts trying desperately to save his catch. After the first attack, the anxious Santiago says “But man is not made for defeat, a man can be destroyed but not defeated” (103). Santiago’s ambitious spirit prevails here. He has realized that no matter what happens to his fish, no one can take this great accomplishment away from him. Defeat is not in Santiago’s vocabulary. He is a wise man with great drive and self worth. He believes in himself even if others doubt him. His carefree spirit keeps him alive, and is the driving force in his life. He will prove to everyone that he is still a great fisherman who has earned their respect.
Santiago’s aggressive drive helped him to overcome some very difficult challenges in securing one of the greatest catches of his life. He reflects on his past, and comes to terms that he is truly a great man who still maintains the ability to catch such a wonderful fish. He is worthy of the others respect, and he is at peace with himself. Throughout life there will be obstacles and challenges that must be faced and overcome. By meeting these head on, we will become stronger individuals for it.
