Relationship Between the Old Man and the Boy Manolin in “The Old Man and the Sea.”
PremiumAssess the relationship between the old man and the boy, Manolin. [2018] ✪✪✪
Or, Evaluate the relationship between the Old Man and the boy Manolin in “The Old Man and the Sea.” [2015]
Ernest Hemingway (1899–1961) in “The Old Man and the Sea” (1952) presents one of the most beautiful relationships in modern fiction. It is the bond between Santiago and Manolin. Their friendship is based on love, respect, and faith. Though divided by age, they are united in spirit. The old man represents wisdom and endurance, while the boy represents youth and hope. Together, they reflect the human values of loyalty, care, and shared courage that keep life meaningful.
Deep Bond of Love: From the beginning, Hemingway shows a pure and loving bond between the old man and the boy. They are not related by blood, but their love is as deep as that of a family. Manolin cares for Santiago like a son. He brings him food and coffee every day and helps carry his nets and lines. The narrator says,
ext-align: center;">“No one should be alone in their old age… but it is unavoidable.” This shows Santiago’s loneliness and the boy’s role in easing it.Mutual Respect and Faith: Their relationship is built on mutual respect and strong faith in each other. Even though Santiago has gone eighty-four days without catching a fish, the boy still believes in him. He says,
This promise shows deep trust and loyalty. The boy never laughs at Santiago like the other fishermen do. Instead, he admires the old man’s skill and spirit. Santiago also respects the boy’s love and innocence.“I caught two yesterday. But we will fish together now.”
Teacher and Disciple: Santiago is not only a friend but also a teacher to Manolin. He has taught the boy how to fish and how to live with dignity. Santiago says proudly,
Through such stories, the old man passes wisdom and inspiration to the boy. The boy learns patience, courage, and respect for nature from him.“When I was your age, I was before the mast on a square-rigged ship that ran to Africa, and I have seen lions on the beaches.”
Symbol of Hope and Renewal: Manolin represents youth, future, and hope in Santiago’s lonely life. He stands for the continuation of human spirit. When the old man returns defeated with only the skeleton of the marlin, it is the boy who restores his hope. He sees Santiago’s wounds and cries for him. The boy’s tears show his love and faith. Santiago says,
In this way, his respect for the marlin mirrors Manolin’s respect for him.“Fish, I love you and respect you very much.”
Spiritual Connection: The bond between Santiago and Manolin is more spiritual than physical. The boy sees in Santiago not only a fisherman but a moral hero. Santiago, too, feels spiritually alive through the boy’s affection. The narrator says,
“Everything about him was old except his eyes and they were cheerful and undefeated.”
This line also reflects how the boy’s faith keeps the old man’s spirit young. Their relationship unites age and youth, wisdom and hope. It also shows that true humanity is found in compassion and love.In summary, the relationship between Santiago and Manolin is the heart of “The Old Man and the Sea.” It gives the story warmth, meaning, and hope. Their bond joins two generations through love and faith. Manolin’s devotion keeps Santiago alive, and Santiago’s courage inspires the boy to grow strong. Through their friendship, Hemingway celebrates humanity’s power to care, to believe, and to endure together.