The Old Man and the Sea

by Ernest Hemingway · 1952

The Old Man and the Sea is a classic novella that tells the story of Santiago, an aging Cuban fisherman who has gone eighty-four days without a catch. Determined to end his streak of bad luck, he ventures far into the Gulf Stream, where he hooks a giant marlin. The ensuing struggle is a test of physical and emotional endurance, as Santiago battles the fish for days while reflecting on his life, his pride, and his connection to the natural world. The story explores timeless themes of courage in the face of defeat, the dignity of labor, and the bond between the old man and his young apprentice, Manolin.