Reflection of life of pi

The Life of Pi, by Yann Martel tells the story of Piscine Molitor Patel, also known as Pi,
who is a young Indian boy who survives 227 days in the Pacific Ocean on a lifeboat with a
Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. The story begins with Pi's upbringing in Pondicherry, India
where he grows up with a love for animals and religion. At the age of 16, Pi, his family, and their
zoo animals embark on a journey to Canada where they hope to start a new life. However, the
ship sinks and Pi finds himself adrift in the Pacific Ocean with only a few survival supplies and
Richard Parker.
At first, Pi is terrified of the tiger and tries to keep his distance, but as time goes on, he
realizes that he must find a way to coexist with the animal if he wants to survive. Pi devises a
routine to feed and care for the tiger, even going so far as trying to train him, in order to maintain
a sense of order and control in the lifeboat. I think that the presence of Richard Parker becomes
crucial in keeping him sane. The tiger becomes a source of responsibility, providing Pi with a
sense of purpose and structure as he must care for him. Furthermore, the responsibility of
keeping the tiger alive keeps Pi focused on his own survival and prevents him from slipping into
complete despair. Humans are known for needing someone else to be happy, or whatever it is
that keeps them from insanity. Richard Parker is the coping mechanism for Pi as he continues
to survive on the ocean.
Throughout their journey, Pi faces numerous challenges and obstacles, including
storms, hunger, and later into the book sees more magical and unrealistic things. However, his
faith and determination helps him to overcome these difficulties and continue on his journey. In
the end, Pi is rescued and begins to tell his story to a writer who is seeking a story that will
make him believe in God. Pi's tale of survival in the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger, who
ultimately becomes his friend and companion, serves as a testament to the power of the human
spirit and the importance of having a purpose in life.
All of this is why Richard Parker was a crucial aspect of the story, serving as a means of
keeping Pi sane during his arduous journey. The responsibility of caring for the tiger provides Pi
with a sense of purpose and structure, preventing him from slipping into despair and ensuring
his survival.