In "The Old Man and the Sea," the narrator reflects on the indifference many people show toward turtles, particularly noting the disturbing fact that a turtle's heart continues to beat for hours after it has been killed. This observation speaks to a broader truth about human nature and empathy, contrasting the unfeeling actions of the masses with the compassionate perspective of the old man.

The old man empathizes with the turtle, recognizing that he too possesses a heart that endures suffering. This connection emphasizes his sensitivity to the pain of others, highlighting the theme of struggle and survival in both the natural world and in human life. The contrast between the old man's heart and the callousness of others serves to deepen the narrative's exploration of what it means to be alive and connected to the suffering around us.