Life Of Pi Lifeboat Essay
The story of Pi’s survival on the lifeboat is a fascinating tale of determination and courage. Not only is Pi faced with the constant threat of starvation, but he simultaneously has to deal with the possible reality of being Richard Parker’s next meal. Pi’s ability to survive this treacherous ordeal is depended on his belief in stories, both scientific and spiritual. It’s through these stories that Pi’s able to survive physically, as well as spiritually.
"Animals in the wild lead lives of compulsion and necessity within an unforgiving social hierarchy in an environment where the supply of fear is high and the supply of food low and where territory must constantly be defended and parasites forever endured”. (pg. 16)
A first Pi tries to distance himself from Richard parker by living on a makeshift raft attached to the lifeboat. But this …show more content…
Recognizing that, although his relationship with Richard parker might have been based on fear and uncertainty, he understood that they both needed each other to survive. Richard parker needs Pi, as he is the sole provider of food and water, where as, Pi needs Richard Parker because he gives him purpose to live and provides companionship from the loneness and despair that was now his life.
The story of science, much of it gained from the influence of Pi’s science teacher Mr. Kumar, contributes to his physical survival. Although Mr. Kumar’s influence on Pi greatly affects his belief system, it however doesn’t effect his belief in the story of religion. Mr. Kumar regards himself as a man of science, basing his beliefs on reason and logic, rather than religious faith. Which, as an atheist he views as being superstitious and unsubstantial. Mr. Kumar’s capacity to choose reason over religious faith is perhaps best illustrated when he discusses the topic with Pi.
Pi: "Religion will save us"
Mr. Kumar: "Religion?", I don't believe in religion. Religion is darkness." (pg
"Animals in the wild lead lives of compulsion and necessity within an unforgiving social hierarchy in an environment where the supply of fear is high and the supply of food low and where territory must constantly be defended and parasites forever endured”. (pg. 16)
A first Pi tries to distance himself from Richard parker by living on a makeshift raft attached to the lifeboat. But this …show more content…
Recognizing that, although his relationship with Richard parker might have been based on fear and uncertainty, he understood that they both needed each other to survive. Richard parker needs Pi, as he is the sole provider of food and water, where as, Pi needs Richard Parker because he gives him purpose to live and provides companionship from the loneness and despair that was now his life.
The story of science, much of it gained from the influence of Pi’s science teacher Mr. Kumar, contributes to his physical survival. Although Mr. Kumar’s influence on Pi greatly affects his belief system, it however doesn’t effect his belief in the story of religion. Mr. Kumar regards himself as a man of science, basing his beliefs on reason and logic, rather than religious faith. Which, as an atheist he views as being superstitious and unsubstantial. Mr. Kumar’s capacity to choose reason over religious faith is perhaps best illustrated when he discusses the topic with Pi.
Pi: "Religion will save us"
Mr. Kumar: "Religion?", I don't believe in religion. Religion is darkness." (pg