... nothing has a dual meaning. The first, being the literary one and that he only tried to kill himself for no reason at all. The second is the more subjective reasoning. The old man's despair is nothing. He is surrounded by nothing. There is no reason for him to live and this lack of purpose in life has driven him to the point of ... many that have insomnia so that it can ease his nerves in order for him to sleep. This is a stronger image than one might think. Insomnia is something that can drive a person towards hysteria. What has caused this man's insomnia is the fear of emptiness. With...

• Word Count: 1075
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

... defined alliances and shifting feuds," and he does not have a desire to skulk his way into their relationships (154). He would rather the girls at home be like the ones overseas in Germany and France. His relationships overseas were simple and were based simply on physical appearance, and not complex conversations ... and emotions like the ones he would have to pursue at home. Krebs also did not want to spend the time searching for a job. He would rather spend his days reading and playing pool. ... a job and she would feel all right about it" (157). The only reason he actually wants to...

• Word Count: 964
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

... "But thank God, they are not as intelligent as we who kill them; although they are more noble and more able" (63). Santiago's thoughts helped him ease his worried spirit, and continue on with his purpose. He had never seen a fish so large before, so when the Marlin came out of the water, ... ducks etching themselves against the sky over the water...and he knew no man was ever alone on the sea..." (61). Santiago was not alone out at sea, the comfort he felt from the surroundings helped display his bravery. He was no longer working alone at his task. The courage he had while catching the f...

• Word Count: 714
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School