Life of Pi

When Life of Pi by author Yann Martel was first released, I read a lot of “buzz” about it and thought it sounded interesting.  The more reviews I read, however, the more I was bothered by the possibility of gory violence against animals as part of the plot, and I avoided the book because of those fears.  Curiousity eventually got the best of me though, and as numerous friends had read it, I decided to ask for a copy for Christmas.  Thanks to my “Secret Santa” in Maryland I was finally able to find out what all the fuss was about.

My concerns about disturbing, violent animal imagery weren’t unfounded.  Incidents such as a zebra being eaten alive by a hyena over a 24 hour period were described in graphic detail, and I didn’t enjoy it.  I didn’t think the detail added anything to the plot, and it just made me uncomfortable.  Perhaps it was intended to show the “true nature” of animals, and eventually, of humans, but I just didn’t need so much specific information.  Many people wouldn’t think anything of it, but as an animal lover and someone who’s far too empathetic, it bothered me.  I did enjoy the story itself, as it was both entertaining and fascinating.  The “man-eating island” full of meetkats was a unique surprise and unexpected.  I was quite bewildered by the main character’s assurances that the story would “make you believe in God”, because I didn’t think the book was any more spiritual than a Disney production of “Swiss Family Robinson”.  Pi’s religious faith seemed superficial and bordering on mania—he worshipped God as if worshipping a rock star or famous athlete.  Perhaps I’m supposed to believe that his faith helped him survive, or that his survival was proof that God was by his side.  All I ended up thinking was that if there really is a God, PI wouldn’t have ended up orphaned and shipwrecked in the first place.

So, an entertaining story, quite violent, and confusing in its message if you’re a heathen like me.

Posted by Leigh-Ann on 01/11 at 09:15 PM

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Name:

Email (required, but will not be made public):

Location:

URL:

Smileys

Remember my details for future comments?

Let me know about new replies to this topic?

What is the sum of 3 and 1?

Next entry: Cats is cats

Previous entry: Cats!

<< Back to main