Quote 70
It was dark now as it becomes dark quickly after the sun sets in September. He lay against the worn wood of the bow and rested all that he could. The first stars were out. He did not know the name of Rigel but he saw it and knew soon they would all be out and he would have all his distant friends.
"The fish is my friend too," he said aloud. "I have never seen or heard of such a fish. But I must kill him. I am glad we do not have to try to kill the stars." (3.105, 3.106)
The old man feels uneasy at having to kill the fish, as it will push him further into isolation on the sea.
Quote 71
If the boy was here he would wet the coils of line, he thought. Yes. If the boy were here. If the boy were here. (4.4)
The old man needs the boy not only for companionship, but for assistance in fighting the marlin.
Quote 72
I cannot be too far out now, he thought. I hope no one has been too worried. There is only the boy to worry, of course. But I am sure he would have confidence. Many of the older fishermen will worry. Many others too, he thought. I live in a good town. (4.146)
Although the old man is isolated from others, he never feels completely alone.