Life of Pi?

Question

im doing a paper on the novel Life of Pi i have to compare two places in the novel in this case its the "lifeboat" and the "island" (with meerkats) im trying to figure out what does the lifeboat represent in the novel to Pi? and what the island represents? then i need to figure out how the contrasts of these two places add a meaning to the work of the novel. plzzzz help!!!!

Answer 1

Pi is a unique character in that he follows three faiths: Muslim, Christian and Islam. Each of these could be seen as a "lifeboat". The tiger is a Muslim symbol, but Richard Parker doesn't know that, he'd just assume eat Pi. The sea/fish is a Christian symbol, but unless Pi gathers food and drinkable water, no one is going to feed him. Green is an Islamic color, but the algae island Pi lands on is carnivorous.

In each case, Martel seems to be suggesting the dangers of relying totally on religion. Pi strikes a balance drawing on his faith and personal action. In turn, he gains wisdom and discipline and is rewarded with companionship (as much as a tiger can offer) and food.

At the end of the story, we are given a choice whether to believe Pi's tale, (an act of faith) or write it off (atheism). We are also asked which story we like better...the one we've read, or a more barbaric one involving other ship survivors.

Answer 2

I think the lifeboat represents growth and maturity to Pi. He tames the tiger enough to survive, he's resourceful and he's the king of his little domain. He's out on his own for the first time. At the end, when he tells the alternate story with the mad chef, it could be that the lifeboat with the animals is his fantasised/idealised reality. But we all make up what we want to remember.

The island seems like salvation at first but the acid trees are the dark reality, the payment for living happily during the day. In the end Pi chooses the lifeboat, even with the tiger on board. It seems more real at the time and he's got the option of making it back to land.

So I think they represent the choices Pi makes in life and how he makes the best of a bad situation. He chooses independence and makes it back to land.