In The Young Man and the Sea, family is so important that it transcends life and death. Although Skiff’s mother Mary Rose is deceased at the beginning of the novel, she remains an important influence in his life, shaping his personality and decisions. He frequently recalls and tries to live by her three rules—to think smart, speak the truth, and never give up (21). Moreover, he “speaks” to her by imagining her responses. Skiff grieves his mother, but her death does not mean she ceases to be family. Mary Rose acts as a guiding force for him, as both memory and family boat (which is named after her). This guidance, fueled by love, allows Skiff to safely catch a giant bluefin tuna and make money for the family.

Skiff’s father Skiff Sr. exhibits depression after Mary Rose’s death: He stops working, drinks beer in excess, and spends most of his time sitting in front of a TV. Although Skiff is disappointed by this behavior, he doesn’t renounce his father: As he puts it, “Even with the beer and all, it’s sort of cool, the two of us watching the same show and probably thinking the same things about it” (40). Skiff Sr.