The Old Man Of: The Sea

: Today, the phrase is a metaphor for a lingering burden or a "bore" that one cannot easily shake off. 2. Greek Mythology

: Once Sinbad lifts him, the "Old Man" locks his powerful, snake-like legs around Sinbad's neck and refuses to let go. The Old Man of the Sea

" The Old Man of the Sea " is a title shared by several significant literary and mythological figures. The most famous is a character from the tales of , though the phrase is also often confused with Ernest Hemingway's novel The Old Man and the Sea . 1. Sinbad the Sailor (Arabian Nights) : Today, the phrase is a metaphor for

: A herdsman of sea monsters who served Poseidon. He could foretell the future but would change shapes (into fire, lions, or serpents) to avoid answering questions unless captured and held tightly. " The Old Man of the Sea "

: Sinbad eventually rids himself of the burden by making the Old Man drunk on fermented grapes, causing him to loosen his grip.

In Greek mythology, the title refers to primordial sea gods who were often shape-shifters.