Book Review

Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea is a timeless classic that condenses the essence of human spirit into a compact, powerful narrative. Set in the Cuban waters, the story centers on Santiago, an elderly, down-on-his-luck fisherman who embarks on a solitary voyage to catch a giant marlin after 84 days of fruitless fishing. What makes this novella unforgettable is not just the intense physical struggle between Santiago and the marlin, nor his fierce fight against sharks that ravage his hard-won catch, but his unyielding mental resilience throughout. Hemingway’s signature iceberg theory is on full display here—his sparse, concise prose and minimal dialogue hide profound emotions and universal themes, from the dignity of perseverance to the quiet pride of a man who refuses to be beaten. Santiago’s iconic line “A man can be destroyed but not defeated” is the soul of the book, a mantra that transcends the story itself. He is not a hero in the traditional sense, but an ordinary man with an extraordinary will, finding meaning in the fight even when victory is stripped away. This book is more than a sea adventure; it is a meditation on human nature, teaching readers that true strength lies in the courage to keep going, no matter how harsh the circumstances. Short as it is, it leaves a lasting impression, urging one to reflect on their own battles and the resilience hidden within.