Santiago Vs Dimaggio Essay

No two people are exactly alike, but they can be similar in many ways. Not only can they share the same features and characteristics, but they can also harness the same qualities and values. People who are kind, brave, noble, and honest often think alike, just as the evil and hateful. Kindred spirits can also be prevalent in those who have never met before and never will. Even without the other person being present, the question, “what would he/she do,” always comes into play when faced with a difficult situation. This question is crucial to Santiago, an old fisherman battling a marlin in the middle of the sea. Thinking of his legendary baseball hero, Joe DiMaggio, gives the man faith that he can conquer his strife. In Ernest Hemingway’s, “The Old Man and the Sea,” Santiago compares himself to DiMaggio by discussing their similar backgrounds, reflecting on DiMaggio’s physical struggle, and resolving to reign victorious. Growing up poor, Santiago realizes that he and DiMaggio share a common background. Both men are fishermen and are introduced to the field at a young age. Santiago

DiMaggio never ceases to amaze despite all obstacles. The bone spur means nothing, nor do the losses of the team for Santiago believes “the great DiMaggio is himself again,” and that nothing can stop him. Santiago refuses to surrender the fish and confidently says to himself, “I must be worthy of the great DiMaggio who does all things perfectly even with the pain of the bone spur in his heel.” Santiago feels as if he must impress his idle and uses him for guidance. He is so connected with DiMaggio that he asks himself, “Would the great DiMaggio stay with a fish as long as I will stay with this one?” The two characters are equally strong-willed and both have a triumphant attitude. DiMaggio’s perseverance will influence Santiago to have enough strength to capture the fish, once and for