In Life of Pi Symbolism

Identifying Symbols What are some symbols you have noticed so far? Why do you think Yann Martel has included so many symbolic elements? Was this knowingly done?

A Few Key Symbols Orange Survival – the boat, emergency supplies, etc. The Tiger In Hinduism Saffron The most sacred color for the Hindu saffron. Represents fire and as impurities are burnt by fire, this color symbolizes purity. It also represents religious abstinence. This color connotation has a sacred meaning for the Hindu. It is the color of holy men and ascetics who have renounced the world. Wearing the color symbolizes the quest for light. It is the battle color of the Rajputs, the warrior caste. http://www.wou.edu/provost/library/exhibits/exhibits2004-05/color/Images/hinduism.pdf

A Few Key Symbols Water Survival Purifying Life-giving and life-taking Salvation and condemnation What other symbols can we identify in Life of Pi?

Survival Mechanisms 227 Days at Sea vs. Survival Equipment Inventory (Page 160) Survival Manual (Pages 184-185)

Survival Mechanisms What are some of the less visible/ obvious survival mechanisms that Pi has developed? What kinds of coping mechanisms has Pi developed to maintain his Emotional Health Psychological/ Mental Health Physical Health

Survival Costs What are the personal ‘costs’ associated with survival that Pi must address/ confront? In terms of Pi’s beliefs? In terms of Pi’s behavior?

Suffering In a Grand Setting Chapters 58- 60 What does this phrase imply? Why would this be preferable for Pi? What does this allow Pi to experience? Understand? Consider?

Wednesday: Pi and Richard Parker’s Blindness The Blind Frenchman Encounter