It has been said. “There is nothing more enticing, disenchanting, and enslaving than the
life at sea.” History and literature have proven this in many ways and Yann Martels, Life of
Pi is no exception. Pi Patel, the protagonist overcomes many challenges spanning from
spiritual enlightenment to basic instinct and survival. Coming from an unbiased spiritual
background and having a vast understanding of nature and its creatures, Pi is a
compassionate and intelligent boy. Like the classical hero quest pattern, Pi is forced into
surviving at sea with only animals as companions. It is a long journey filled with danger
solitude and uncertainty, but most of all an exploration of faith.
Pis family runs a zoo in India but flee to Canada (with the animals) because of the unstable
political situation. Early in the voyage the ships sinks and all that is left is a life boat
containing a zebra, an orangutan, a hyena, a Bengal tiger and a boy. “Jesus, Mary,
Muhammad and Vishnu, how good to see you Richard Parker!” Pi Patel cries. The task that
has been brought upon
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him wont be solved by the three religions Pi has become apart of. He slowly begins to
realize that his faith and loyalty may not save him. With his family missing and no hope of
seeing them again he falls into a depression. Now his fate will be decided by the sea and
his will to survive.
In order to survive Pi must defeat the last member of his ill fated crew:Richard Parker.
