“Everything about him was old except his eyes and they were the color of the sea and were cheerful and undefeated.”

What a perfect day to read my first Hemingway book - the author's 121st birth anniversary.

This is a simple story that is written in a simple language. But it hits you like a tide (pun intended). You think that the old man is stupid to not let the fish go even after so much struggle. But you also understand why he doesn't want to. I loved the relationship between the old man and the young boy, Santiago and Manolin.

Highly recommend this book to everyone!

"You did not kill the fish only to keep alive and to sell for food, he thought. You killed him for pride and because you are a fisherman. You loved him when he was alive and you loved him after. If you love him, it is not a sin to kill him. Or is it more?"

My first Hemingway was a resounding success and I can't wait to read more of his books.

Happy birthday, sir.