What Really Happened In 'Who Killed Shark Attacks?'

Finally, the third component that proves the essential meaning of the novel, is the dreaded shark attacks that Santiago endures. One could argue that if the old man would have taken different precautions he would have had a better outcome catching or preserving the fish. However, Santiago understands why the event of the shark attacks happened, which makes it clear that he was not defeated although the marlin was mutilated by the sharks. He did, however have an opposite type of relationship with the sharks that was deconstructive. To begin with, the text suggests, “The shark was not an accident. He had come up from deep down in the water as the dark cloud of blood had settled and dispersed in the mile deep sea,” (100). Santiago is knowledgeable enough to know that blood …show more content…
Although the first shark did great damage to the marlin, it was lucky for Santiago to be prepared and able to kill the shark before it took all of the fish or killed him. The old man was cautious of all things that could happen on the open water and what dangerous animals lurk within the mile deep sea. Obviously after the shark took a large portion of his catch, he had several negative thoughts and feelings about sharks. For example, on page 107 when Santiago states, “They were hateful sharks, bad smelling, scavengers as well as killers, and when they were hungry they would bite at an oar or the rudder of a boat.” This description of the destructive sharks can prove that no matter what type of relationship man has with nature, it is still influential to the man and animal. From start to finish, the distinct connections the old man had created made his journey what it was. Lastly, the author writes, “I killed him in self defense,” the old man said aloud. “And I killed him well,” (106). The way Santiago talks about the sharks is the complete opposite of how he talks about the