As far as I have read I can not in the right mind say that this book could be used for an AP course or test. The book itself could be simply compared to an advanced children's book. Now I in no way am bashing on Ernest Hemingway as a person or Author, and he may well have been going for a more simpler approach with this book, and try to reach more audiences.
The book really has not offered many chances for deeper insight as it is a more simple book. I have in a few circumstances been able to think deeper about certain parts of the book, like when the old man Santiago is fishing for the large Marlin, that may have been one of the few times I was actually able to think about deeper meanings.
The book is still enjoyable even with its lack of complexity, the imagery and sensory details can make it a fun read, but definitely not one to be used for an assignment.
It's so funny, I've never read The Old Man and the Sea, but I feel like it's one of the books that often gets cited as a metaphorical piece despite many people thinking it's literally just a story about a guy fishing. You seem to think the latter, except for the few parts you mentioned here. Do you mind expanding on some of the deeper meanings that could be construed from the novel?
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. There is not enough detail in this book to be taught in an AP class. It lacks concrete examples to use during the exam, and is written like a children's book, as you said. I do however believe this book made me think deeply very frequently and I appreciated its very unique style. Do you think that the book's simplicity is a symbol in itself?
ReplyDelete-Ben
Ben, thank you for your input.
DeleteAfter thinking I do believe that Hemingway may have been going for an approach that would make the reader think it is so simple but there really is more behind it.
Caleb, could you support your assessment of the book a bit more. While Hemingway is not my favorite author, explaining your issues with the book a bit more would help support your ideas.
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