The remark contrasts physical strength with experience and determination. Santiago recognises that he may be weaker than he believes, but he also knows that strength is not his only resource. The “tricks” he refers to are the practical skills and knowledge gained through years of fishing, while his “resolution” is his willingness to continue despite difficulty.

In The Old Man and the Sea, this balance is central to Santiago’s struggle. Age has reduced some of his physical power, yet it has also given him knowledge of the sea, fish and his own limits. The line therefore presents competence as a combination of experience, judgement and persistence rather than force alone. It also shows a measured form of self-confidence: Santiago does not deny his weaknesses, but neither does he allow them to define what he is capable of attempting.

Full quotation

“I may not be as strong as I think,,” the old man said. “But I know many tricks and I have resolution.”