The title of The Old Man and the Sea says it all . . . literally. When I first saw this book awhile back, I remember being particularly interested in the title. A lot of authors try to grab reader’s attention by giving their novels very interesting and creative titles. This technique does tend to draw me in when I am at the book store or library trying to find a book, although I was particularly fascinated with Hemmingway’s title choice because of its simplicity. The laid back title fits perfectly with the book itself. Hemmingway uses short and choppy sentences throughout the novel which adds suspense, but at the same time, allows for a smooth flow of words while readers are embarking on the old man’s journey at sea. The tone of The Old Man and the Sea is very calming and mellow, so giving the title of the book a very parallel feel only adds to what important message Hemmingway portrays through Santiago.
Like the title of the novel, Santiago is a very undemanding man. He does not live a lifestyle of fame and fortune, but rather a laid back routine. I think the overall simple tone of the novel itself, along with the title, allows for a more subtle and impacting message to be depicted. Readers are not distracted by the annoying and pointless characters that most books contain. Having a much exaggerated plot makes me feel as if I get lost throughout each chapter and forget what the actual point in the story is trying to be relayed. The Old Man and the Sea can be interrupted in many ways, depending on the audience reading it. I think younger readers would enjoy the novel because it is definitely straightforward, title and all. Whereas older, more mature readers will be able to dig deeper into the meaning of the name of the book and even the hidden message portrayed through the old man. Anyway, the title of The Old Man and the Sea definitely adds appeal in my opinion.
Hemingway, Ernest. The Old Man and the Sea. New York: Scribner, 2003. Print.
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