Discuss the character sketch of the boy, Manolin.

Manolin is the second important character of the novel “the old man and the sea” he is shown as an obedient, respectful and sincerely devoted disciple of the old man. He assists Santiago in his fishing excursion, and is also learning the art of fishing from Santiago. The opening of the novel shows that Manolin has already been with Santiago. But his parents withdrew him when Santiago could 3 not hook any fish for forty days. However the boy continues visiting Santiago even after that and encourages him to go on sea for fishing.

Manolin is Santiago’s only companion in the old age. The old man is leading a secluded life in the hut. His wife is dead and he has no issue. Manolin serves him in all matters like an obedient disciple and son. He helps Santiago in his fishing preparation, carries fishing gear and other thing to his boat. They exchange views quite frankly on different topics like close friends. He provides Santiago the much needed company in his loneliness. He is deeply sincere with the old man and encourages him through thick and thin.

Manolin has a deep love and attachment for the old man. “ the old man had thought the boy to fish and the boy loved him”, shows their deep attachment. “it was papa mad me leave. I am boy and I must obey him,” says the boy. He is deeply devoted to the old man in a son-father selfless love. Both Santiago and Manloin learns the craft of fishing above material benefit. Manolin learns the craft of the fishing from Santiago yet his attachment with him is above material gains Manolin feels deeply hurt at Santiago’s broken condition and console and make him cheerful. Santiago also depends on the boy in all matters. The boy really fulfils a vital emotional need of the old man. They have mutual sense of understanding. Manolin is a source of great inspiration for the old man. The idea of the boy revives the image of his own youth in his mind. He derives great strength from the image of the boy. During the ordeal of hunting huge marlin, the old man speaks of the boy time and again and says, “I wish I had the boy.” The boy is source of strength, courage and youthful zest for the old man.

Manolin also wins the sympathy of the readers. He is always present with the old man physically as well as spiritually. The readers are equally impressed by the innocent, pure, selfless and sacrificing behavior of the boy.

Muhammad Sohail Arif