How does Santiago view loneliness?

Santiago is philosophical about his loneliness. After the marlin takes the bait, Santiago wishes Manolin was with him so he could get some help bringing it in. He thinks, 'No one should be alone in their old age, he thought. But it is unavoidable. ' Loneliness to Santiago is part of the price for getting older. The older one gets, the more people they once know pass away. What is left is loneliness and solitude: Santiago accepts this practicality as part of life.