The Sharks

The sharks became a large threat to the fish and the old man throughout the novel. If it weren’t for the sharks, the old man could have gotten his large marlin and he could have gained a larger reputation. Although it was disheartening to watch Santiago’s goal be taken away, it is out of one’s control to steer the sharks away from the fish.

I was beginning to enjoy the struggle between the fish and the old man. The old man protected the fish as if it were his child. He did this to ensure that his catch would be perfect and unharmed. Although many can claim that Santiago protected the fish for food or respect, I believe he also gained a relationship with the fish. Without the fish, Santiago would have no struggle or companion. His lowliness on the sea made him begin speaking to animals such as birds and fish. This loneliness is discouraging, yet readers continue on.

Once the sharks entered the story, the theme changed. Many readers were unhappy with the shark’s involvement in the catch but it gave readers entertainment and a bit of excitement. Because of this excitement, readers continued on with the novel and did not stray away from the ongoing battle between the fish, the old man, and now the ravenous sharks. Although the excitement was nice at first, the reality of the sharks placement in the novel set in. Many readers knew the marlin’s fate. The fate was unfortunately inevitable. After the fish’s death, Santiago thinks of the many sharks the marlin had once killed. This gives a key to the marlin’s strength and size. One almost feels sympathy for the marlin because he was held captive by the old fisherman. If he were not venerable, he could easily defeat the colony of sharks attacking him. I believe the sharks symbolized death and fear, but brought about a new leaf. Without the sharks, Santiago would not be able to realize his future and the purpose of his journey.