The Theme of Brotherhood with Nature

Santiago's sense of kinship with all creatures of the sea, from the marlin to the porpoises, emphasizing interconnectedness.

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The Porpoises as Brothers

The Porpoises as Brothers The Sound of Life Santiago hears porpoises rolling and blowing. He can tell the difference between male and female. He says, "They are good. They play and make jokes and love one another. They are our brothers like the flying fish." The Family of the Sea He sees the porpoises, the flying fish, the birds, the turtle as part of his family. He is not alone. The sea is full of brothers. This theme unites all living things.

The Marlin as Brother

The Marlin as Brother The Deepest Bond Santiago feels the strongest brotherhood with the marlin. He says, "We are joined together." He loves the fish. He calls it his brother. This bond makes the killing tragic. The Shared Fate They are both suffering. They are both fighting for their lives. The line connects them. Santiago wishes he could feed the fish. He is sorry for it. This brotherhood is the emotional core of the novel.

The Sharks as Enemies

The Sharks as Enemies A Different Kind of Brother Even the sharks are part of the sea. Santiago respects the Mako, but despises the galanos. They are still creatures of the sea, part of the brotherhood of life and death. The Cycle of Life Everything kills everything else. The sharks are doing what they must. Santiago accepts this. He does not hate them. He fights them because he must. This theme extends brotherhood even to enemies.

the first night at sea

the battle

the shark attacks