Essay On Boundaries In Life Of Pi

Words: 758
Pages: 4

In Yann Martel’s Life of Pi, Martel constantly talks about boundaries and how they are everywhere. In the story, Pi likes the idea of having boundaries; he appreciates them. However, he only respects them in certain aspects. When it comes to dividing animals in a zoo, Pi knows that boundaries are needed to keep order. Mixing different animals with one another will cause chaos and possible death to some animals. So not only are the boundaries there to keep order, but to also protect. Same goes for the boundaries set between animals and humans. However the partition isn’t entirely for order- it’s also to establish dominance. Pi respects this boundary and knows it to be required for many reasons. Yet, when he finds out that there are boundaries for religion, and how supposedly he can only practice one, he does not understand. Nevertheless, Pi knows that boundaries are there for a reason. In his story, Yann Martel is trying to show that boundaries are necessary to keep order, serve as protection, and to establish dominance.

In the beginning of the story, Pi observes the boundaries that are set in zoos. He understands them and knows exactly why they are there. Still, his father feels the need to show him why he shouldn’t go near the animals, especially the tigers. In chapter eight, Pi talks about the Bengal Tiger, Mashida. “The sound
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It questions the idea of whether or not boundaries are really necessary. The boundary between animals: yes, in order to keep the zoo together. The boundary between animals and humans: yes, to establish dominance and to protect. The boundary between religions: maybe. Pi isn’t the only one to question this boundary, nor is he the only to question boundaries at all. The division between religions raises many eyebrows, and as much as many people may disagree with it, they do respect it. So, are boundaries really necessary to keep order in the system and to give protection? The answer is