π

Yesterday I turned the last page on the ‘Life of Pi’ and realised that there’s much I wanted to say about it. I had heard of the book when it had become a rage, but I never really got around to reading it. Then I saw the trailer of the Ang Lee directorial, and was intrigued by the story – like I have discussed in a previous post.
There was a whole section on animals in the zoo. The pre-Pacific bit. I have never been a fan of putting animals and birds behind cages. One of the major reasons why I don’t enjoy zoos. But Yann Martel mentions that animals get accustomed to where they live and it really doesn’t matter whether its a zoo – or the wild. Rather, he claims that they live better in zoos. I can’t really make my mind up with regard to whats better – be protected and live a longer life behind bars, or be wild and free and take the chance that one may not enjoy the benefits of a full life.
Essentially, I found the book very thought provoking. I had so many questions, which I know will perhaps stay that way.

Is this a true story? Is it possible to survive – floating on the Pacific living mostly on biscuits and water for 227 days? Where did Richard Parker go – and why did he not look back? Why would someone name their child after a swimming pool?

And there are the things that the protagonist says. Or the author wishes to communicate through him.
On Closure:
“It’s important in life to conclude things properly. Only then can you let go. Otherwise you are left with words you should have said but never did, and your heart is heavy with remorse.”
On Faith:
“There are always those who take it upon themselves to defend God… These people fail to realise that it is on the inside that God must be defended, not on the outside.”
On Fear:
“I must say a word about fear. It is life’s only true opponent. Only fear can defeat life. It is a clever, treacherous adversary, how well I know. It has no decency, respects no law or convention, shows no mercy. It goes for your weakest spot, which it finds with unerring ease. It begins in your mind, always. One moment you are feeling calm, self-possessed, happy. Then fear, disguised in the garb of mild-mannered doubt, slips into your mind like a spy.”
On Nature:
 “Nature can put on a thrilling show. The stage is vast, the lighting is dramatic, the extras are innumerable, and the budget for special effects is absolutely unlimited.”
All throughout the book, I was pausing and scrambling for bits of paper to write these on, so that they might not go forgotten. I cannot say if the movie will stir the same emotions, but Pi Patel’s story is one of courage and belief. One that we should remember as though it were true.