1. Simple, Direct Language: Hemingway uses short, declarative sentences and avoids complex vocabulary. This creates a sense of immediacy and realism, mirroring the stark simplicity of the old man's life and the harshness of the sea.
2. Minimalism and Conciseness: Hemingway's prose is spare and focused, leaving much unsaid. He relies heavily on showing rather than telling, letting the reader draw their own conclusions from the actions and observations of the characters.
3. Vivid Sensory Details: While the language is simple, Hemingway's descriptions are rich in sensory details, drawing the reader into the physical world of the story. He uses precise imagery to convey the textures, smells, and sounds of the sea, the boat, and the fish.
4. Internal Monologue: The novel focuses heavily on the thoughts and feelings of the old man, Santiago. We experience the story primarily through his perspective, gaining insights into his internal struggles, motivations, and beliefs.
5. Symbolism and Themes: Although Hemingway avoids overt symbolism, the story is rich in symbolic meaning. The fish, the sea, the sharks, and the old man himself represent larger concepts like struggle, resilience, and the human condition.
6. Understatement: Hemingway often understates the gravity of the situation, creating a sense of tension and suspense. This is particularly evident in the descriptions of the old man's physical and emotional exhaustion.
7. The Iceberg Theory: Hemingway famously said that a writer should only include "one-eighth of what is needed to convey the meaning." This "Iceberg Theory" is evident in "The Old Man and the Sea," where much of the story's meaning is left to the reader to interpret.
8. Code Hero: Santiago embodies Hemingway's ideal of a "code hero" - a man who faces adversity with courage and grace, adhering to a strong moral code, even in the face of defeat.
These elements combine to create a powerful and timeless narrative that transcends the simple surface story of a fisherman and his struggle. "The Old Man and the Sea" is a classic example of Hemingway's signature style, which has influenced generations of writers.