Santiago and the Birds: Compassion

The old man's empathy for the delicate birds of the sea, a reflection of his own vulnerability and kindness.

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The Man-of-War Bird

The Man-of-War Bird A Helper Santiago sees a man-of-war bird and follows it. It leads him to bait fish. He respects the bird's skill. He says, "He's got something." The Bird's Struggle The bird dives again and again, sometimes unsuccessfully. Santiago pities it. He thinks of the birds' hard life. The sea is cruel to them. This shows Santiago's ability to see kinship with all creatures.

The Warbler's Rest

The Warbler's Rest A Tired Visitor A small warbler lands on the line. It is exhausted. Santiago talks to it, offers it a place to rest. He is sorry he cannot take it in because he is "with a friend" (the fish). The Bird's Departure The bird leaves when the fish jerks the line. Santiago misses its company. He thinks about the hawks that hunt the bird. He is tender-hearted. This brief encounter highlights his loneliness and kindness.

The Birds as Brothers

The Birds as Brothers A Shared Lot Santiago feels a kinship with the flying fish and the porpoises, but also with the birds. They are all part of the sea's family. He loves them. The Robber Birds He even understands the robber birds, who are strong. They are not his favorites, but they exist. He does not judge them. This compassion for the birds is a measure of his humanity.

the first morning at sea

the second day at sea

throughout the story