This human solidarity and interdependence gives meaning and

adds purpose to the otherwise existential struggle in life. Previously,

the earlier protagonists could not see beyond themselves and,
therefore, could not experience the larger life which the later
protagonists get plentifully. In spite of all their misfortunes and
tragedy, these later characters could still maintain a positive, highly
affirmative view of life. Santiago, after the terrible ordeals on the sea,
still could say, “I live in a good town” ; Robert Jordan too has no regret
for all the misfortune and tragedy that befall him; Cantwell, on the
threshold of death, still considers himself a “lucky son of a bitch”
(ARIT254)
Santiago expresses this affirmative attitude thus:
“But man is not made for defeat," he said. “A man can be destroyed but not
defeated” (103).