The Marlin

I enjoy the marlins placement in the novel. The large fish acts as multiple things in the novel. The fish acts as a goal or target throughout the novel. The marlin seems to be Santiago’s goal and wish during his journey. He made the journey to catch the magnificent creature and he will not allow the fish to retreat from his grasps. Although Santiago would like to catch the marlin, he seems to protect it and nurture it throughout the novel. He believes it is his duty to protect the magnificent fish and he will not let any other creature or force of nature take it away. I believe he is completely devoted to his fish and will not let his companions down.

I enjoy the marlin because he seems to be another character in the novel. The novel lacks characters and the marlin is just like another human. It goes through similar hardships and unfortunately dies in the end. The death of the fish is discouraging and some could say even fruitless. The fact that the fish dies in the end makes the trip almost completely worthless. After readers realize that Santiago caught the fish and accomplished his goal, the death is not as discouraging. Like a character in a novel, the marlin suffers fatal blows. He is slowly attacked by large amounts of sharks. This slow death disheartens readers and many can find sympathy for the fish and the old man. The old man did not seem too happy about the marlin’s death, yet he dragged the extremely large skeleton up to shore and he gained much respect from the fish. The marlin can somewhat symbolize hope and respect. Without the large fish, Santiago would not gain hope of living a sturdy life as a fisherman. Without the large fish, Santiago would not gain respect from his fellow companions. The marlin’s skeleton created great things for Santiago. The relationship between Santiago and Manolin was strengthened by the tireless journey.