The Old Man and the Sea

Significane of Santiago's Dreams

     Santiago dreams three times about four things. He dreams before going to the fishing expedition, during the fishing expedition and after the fishing expedition. He sees coasts, mountains, lions and porpoises  in his dreams. These things make his dreams significant because these tell his past, show his gallant spirit and boast up his morale.

     Firstly, the dreams highlight Santiago's past. The coasts of Africa in his dreams indicate that he was born at Lanza Rota in the Canary Islands. Moreover, he dreams of Africa when he was a boy. This shows that he moved to Cojimar in Cuba as a young man. Thus Santiago is not a Cuban but a Spanish expatriate.

     Secondly, the dreams imply that Santiago has a gallant spirit. The mountains in his dreams signify that his spirit possesses the capacity of suffering and sense of commitment equal in magnitude to mountains. In fact, his spirit makes him a 'giant' before whom the other fishermen are 'pygmies' who can be cowed down by considerations of fate.

     Thirdly, the dreams baost up the old man's morale. The lions in his dreams function as symbols of youth, pride, power, action and better future. These make him feel strong, youthful, confident and happy. In fact, the lions are his prop in predicament. The porpoises in his dreams show his love for sea-creatures.