What is the old man´s relation with the sea? How does he feel about the sea?

Santiago has a greater connection with nature than he has with people (other than Manolin). Santiago muses about the sea birds, turtles.....The sea is like a mistress to Santiago. She has moods, she has love, and she has revenge. The Marlin, however, holds a special place in his heart. In many ways the Marlin is symbolic of Santiago in his youth, strong and majestic. There are times when Santiago even wishes to sacrifice himself for the great fish. Santiago loves the Marlin because it validates him, even a broken old fisherman that he has become.

Santiago feels that the Marlin is his true brother. The great Marlin gives him life and it gives him purpose,

"It is good that we do not have to try to kill the sun or the moon or the stars. It is enough to live on the sea and kill our true brothers."