describe the struggle of the old man

Santiago's struugle is a very complex theme. He struggles with bad luck and aging, he fights against being alone in his old age....... trying to take care of himself.

His struggle against the marlin is made worse because of his age. He doesn't have the endurance of the fish, but he holds on anyway. He takes his life into his own hands, and in turn, rips his hands to shreds. He doesn't have enough food and water.......... and in the end, he doesn't even have the marlin.