Hemingway said :" A man is not born to be defeated , you can destroy it ." It tells the story of Manuel , an elderly and somewhat impoverished bullfighter , who was knocked down by bulls several times during a bullfight and became more and more seriously injured . He still insisted on getting up again and again and finally stabbing the bull to death . Therefore , people can not easily say defeat , as long as there is confidence , willing to persist , will be able to overcome difficulties . Personality stubborn , confident not to admit defeat . This article tells the story of the matador Manuel , who is forced by life , but also out of love and pride for the brave cause of bullfighting . He is clever , despite his old age and infirmness , he still insists on bullfighting .