That "man can be destroyed but not defeated" is exemplified in The Old Man and the Sea through Santiago's valiant battle to keep the sharks from his giant marlin. He loses the struggle but is not defeated, because he fought with all his strength and courage.

Santiago says "Every day is a new day" to express his belief in the possibility of change and the importance of perseverance. Despite his bad luck, he maintains optimism and humility, knowing that precise preparation will eventually lead to success. His statement reflects his tireless work ethic and the wisdom gained from suffering, emphasizing the need to remain hopeful and diligent.

In Ernest Hemingway's novella, the sea serves as both antagonist and ally to Santiago, providing sustenance and solace while also challenging him. Santiago views the sea as feminine, calling it "la mar," in contrast to other fishermen who see it as a masculine adversary. The sea symbolizes nature's indifference and the challenges that test Santiago's spirit and moral code.

Santiago talks to himself in The Old Man and the Sea because he is lonely after Manolin left, and he finds it a normal behavior since he has no one else to converse with. As an old man, he justifies this by noting there's no one to annoy. Despite the tradition of silence among fishermen, he talks to himself, indicating his deep need for companionship.

Before Santiago's 84th day without a catch, attitudes towards him are mixed. Some fishermen respect him, acknowledging his skill despite his lack of success, while others mock him. Manolin, his young friend, remains loyal and supportive, although his parents forbid him from fishing with Santiago, considering him unlucky. Manolin respects his parents' wishes but maintains his faith in Santiago, demonstrating a strong bond and admiration for the old man.

Santiago's statement, "I'm glad we do not have to kill the stars," reflects his respect for nature and his understanding of his place within it. He acknowledges the natural order and his limitations, expressing relief that he does not have to harm celestial bodies, which he views as distant friends. This sentiment underscores his humility and the emotional and physical challenges he faces as a fisherman, highlighting his respect for the natural world and its creatures.

Santiago defies defeat by valiantly fighting the sharks that attack his marlin, using a knife, club, and oars until exhausted. Although the sharks consume the marlin's meat, Santiago returns to shore with its skeleton, symbolizing a moral victory. His resilience inspires Manolin to fish with him again. Santiago's dreams of African lions further signify his enduring spirit. The novel illustrates that one can be physically beaten yet remain undefeated in spirit.

The relationship between the boy and the old man is akin to a father-son bond, characterized by deep mutual respect and care. Although not related, they have shared years of interaction, with the old man teaching the boy to fish, for which the boy is eternally grateful. Concerned for the old man's health and fishing misfortunes, the boy assumes a caretaker role, highlighting their warmth and emotional connection through acts like buying sardines and covering him with a blanket.

In The Old Man and the Sea, Santiago addresses the marlin as "brother" because it is a kindred spirit and a tough, strong, noble creature worthy of his respect.

In The Old Man and the Sea, Santiago views religion pragmatically. While he claims not to be religious, he frequently invokes God and prays during his struggle with the marlin. His prayers reflect a belief in an all-knowing God and provide him comfort. Santiago also grapples with notions of sin and pride, suggesting a spiritual connection with nature and a belief in a providential plan.