The Old Man and the Sea

by Ernest Hemingway
The Old Man and the Sea cover
Good Books rating 3.55
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £2.00–£8.99 Hardback • £14.50
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  • ID: 1234
  • Added: 2025-10-01
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781476787848
  • Publisher: Scribner
  • Published: 2020-07-21
  • Formats: 57
  • Reviews: 4

Ernest Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea is a celebrated novel that has captivated millions of readers worldwide. The story follows an old Cuban fisherman, Santiago, as he embarks on a grueling journey to catch a massive marlin, facing immense physical and emotional challenges. Hemingway's simple yet powerful prose transforms this seemingly straightforward narrative into a profound exploration of human endurance and the indomitable spirit. /n/nThe novel, published in 1952, is not only a testament to Hemingway's literary genius but also a significant work that contributed to his receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954. This edition includes early drafts, supplementary material, and personal insights from Hemingway's son and grandson, offering readers a deeper understanding of the author's creative process and the enduring impact of his work.

Reviews
Reddit - r/books · 2025-10-18
disappointing 1.50

The reviewer finds the prose plain and the story underwhelming. They express disappointment with Hemingway's writing style, which they find lacking in depth and originality.

The Reddit reviewer expresses a strong dislike for 'The Old Man and the Sea,' finding the prose plain and the story underwhelming. They mention that they expected more from a renowned author like Hemingway and were disappointed by the simplicity of the writing. The reviewer feels that the story lacks depth and originality, making it an unremarkable read. They also note that the narrative did not resonate with them on a deeper level, which contributed to their overall dissatisfaction with the book.

Quick quotes

    I found it quite underwhelming.

    I like prose and I found his style a bit plain.

    I've been told Hemingway is one of the great American authors so I expected more.

Medium · 2025-10-01
calming 4.20

Reading the book is like a meditative experience, similar to the act of fishing. The narrative is all about the journey and the reflection on life.

The reviewer on Medium describes reading the book as a meditative experience, much like the act of fishing itself. The narrative's focus on the old man's journey and his reflections on life is both calming and introspective. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to capture the essence of solitude and the beauty of the natural world. They find the story to be a profound exploration of the human spirit and the search for meaning. The simplicity and elegance of Hemingway's prose make it a deeply satisfying read.

Quick quotes

    Reading this book is like a meditative experience which is similar to the act of fishing.

    The entire narrative is all about that journey and the reflection on life.

    The simplicity and elegance of Hemingway's prose make it a deeply satisfying read.

I Would Rather Be Reading Blog · 2020-12-31
profound 4.00

Hemingway's characterization of the old man is strong and vivid, capturing his aged and weathered appearance. The story is a powerful exploration of human endurance and the struggle against nature.

The reviewer from 'I Would Rather Be Reading Blog' highlights Hemingway's exceptional ability to characterize the old man within the first few pages. The description of his aged and gnarled body, shaped by years of labor, sets the stage for a powerful narrative. The story is seen as a profound exploration of human endurance and the relentless struggle against nature. The reviewer appreciates the depth and simplicity of Hemingway's writing, which effectively conveys the old man's determination and resilience. The review also notes the universal themes of hope and perseverance that resonate throughout the story.

Quick quotes

    Hemingway manages to provide a strong characterization of him within the first couple of pages, his body aged and gnarled by years of labor but his spirit unbroken.

    The story is a powerful exploration of human endurance and the struggle against nature.

    The depth and simplicity of Hemingway's writing effectively convey the old man's determination and resilience.

Jim Wilbourne's Blog · 2020-03-29
inspiring 4.50

The story is a powerful exploration of faith, courage, and persistence. The protagonist's unwavering determination is both inspiring and poignant.

Jim Wilbourne's review highlights the profound themes of faith, courage, and persistence that run throughout the novel. The old fisherman's relentless determination in the face of adversity is both inspiring and deeply moving. The narrative's simplicity belies its depth, making it a timeless tale of human resilience. Jim appreciates Hemingway's ability to convey complex emotions and philosophical ideas through a straightforward story. Overall, the book leaves a lasting impression, reminding readers of the importance of hope and perseverance.

Quick quotes

    The story reinforces the importance of faith, courage, and persistence.

    Santiago refuses to give up hope that his fortunes can turn for the better.

    The narrative's simplicity belies its depth, making it a timeless tale of human resilience.

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