“Sanctify them by truth; your word is your truth” (John 17:17). This verse relates to Life of Pi, as it signifies the meaning of the work as whole. When analyzing the novel, Life of Pi, Yann Martel makes use of foils, paradox, and character development to create theme: truth is subjective. Just as the meaning of disciple John’s script is subjective depending on one’s interpretation. Martel develops this idea into a theme that one must accept others’ truths, which is evident through the work as whole.
To commence, Martel uses foils to further develop theme. The addition of Mr. Kumar and Mr. Kumar symbolizes the many opposing perspectives on life. While at the zoo, Pi shows them a zebra: ‘“The Rolls-Royce of equids,’ said Mr. Kumar. ‘What a wondrous creature,’ said Mr. Kumar” (Martel 93). Although both are looking at the same animal, they see it in different
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In part one we are introduced to Pi’s polytheistic perspective, where he believes in Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. After building up enough courage Pi asks his parents for a prayer rug and to be baptised. Pi declares, “I would like to pray outside without getting my pants dirty. And I’m attending a Christian school without having received the proper baptism of Christ” (Martel 79). After much consideration, Pi’s parents agree to both requests. This relates to the meaning of the work as a whole as although Pi’s parents may not agree with his decision they still accept his polytheistic worldview to be his truth. Additionally, Pi also models Martel’s theme. While blind on the lifeboat Pi encounters another blind survivor. Pi exclaims, “What! Can it be true? Please, do you have any food?” (Martel 276). Although vulnerable due to blindness Pi still believes someone is there. After a long conversation with the man Pi believes everything he has to say. This not only develops Pi’s character, but also models that one should accept others’