Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, by using symbolism and a deft amount of humor, Martel weaves a grand yarn that serves as a modern, more magical version of Noah's ark. The author points out that, through the interwoven themes of freedom and survival, floats the awe-inspiring heroism of Pi, who, through his ordeal, discovers a deep sense of truth. The paper relates that "Life of Pi" is a symbolic text that explores the meaning of life through the triple meaning of Piscine's name: pool, pi, and pissing, the territorial marker, which would save the boy's life.

From the Paper:

"Piscine, French for "pool," was so named in honor of his father's closest friend, a champion swimmer. The French connection subtly links Pi to Pondicherry, a former French colony in India, and with the French chef. Pool, however, has a more direct relationship with the plot of the novel. Pi himself did not become a champion swimmer, but once the Tsimtsum capsizes, Pi's pool becomes the entire Pacific Ocean. Within its waters, Pi finds sustenance and fear, ironic suffocation within its endless depths. Although a sworn vegetarian, Pi has to fish for food to survive: his giant pool provides him and his tiger companion with everything from turtles to flying fish to feed on. However, the pool's water is unfit to drink, its salt destructive to his entire body."

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