“an author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step; who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered; who has expressed his thought, observation, or invention, in no matter what form, only provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself; who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.”
83 comments:
Rohrbach 5
Can Martel's "Life of Pi" be a classic, and can he be canonized? "an author who has enriched the human mind..." Martel has certainly done this. He has brought to life many issues through his book, most of which are about fighting with one's own morality. This book urges the reader to question what they already think they know. "sane and beautifully in itself; who has spoken to all in his peculiar style..." If I could applaud Martel on only one thing, it would be his style. This Author has a way of capturing the story in a way that flows as smooth as poetry its self. His manner of describing events and settings allows his reader to jump into the universe of his book. With his seamless flow and descriptive language, I would say it is nothing short of hypnotic. "easily contemporary with all time." This is where things get tricky, while I believe Martel has filled almost all the criteria for being canonized, it is still to early to make that decision. What speaks to this decade does not necessarily hold true decades from now. No Martel's "Life of Pi" is not a classic, but there is little doubt in my mind that he will be.
Van Egdom 5
Undisputedly, Yann Martel has contributed a uniquely thought-provoking novel. In Life of Pi, Martel allows every major religion to coexist in a world of reason. He even openly accepts atheists, “Atheists are my brothers and sisters of a different faith, and every word they speak speaks of faith. Like me, they go as far as the legs of reason will carry them—and then they leap.” Logic can take people to wonderful places, but faith will launch them into unchartered territory. In this age of religion and lack thereof, Martel “caused [me] to advance a step.” My life cannot be separate spheres of religion and science, but intermingled instead. Faith does not mean religion—Martel has faith in his biological and psychological understanding of Richard Parker to train him. Martel manages to bend the lines between genres. Depending on the person, Life of Pi may be an adventure, biographical, or fantasy novel. He keeps people guessing. Everybody can relate to the religious, rational, and human undertones. Even if someone is atheist or agnostic, they can respect Patel’s thoughts. Everybody has moments of feeling “finite and insignificant.” Patel carefully measures his movements; Patel writes a list of his materials onboard and thoroughly describes the training process. No matter the individual, they will want their existence on Earth to mean something. Patel uses religion to establish significance in his suffering. If that is not “some moral and not equivocal truth,” then I do not know what is. Style.
Martel fuses short and long chapters, inconsecutive memories, and metafiction in a surprisingly effective manner. No other author has so carefully constructed a novel as Martel has. The disorderly chapters augment Patel’s lack of sense of time. Unfortunately, Life of Pi does not fit the full definition provided for a possibly canonized novel. “Easily contemporary with all time.” Life of Pi was released in 2001, so I cannot confidently speak to the novel’s timeless quality. Without the last five words, I would assuredly rank Life of Pi among the literary canon.
Pruett 5
Without a doubt, Life of Pi is a phenomenal novel that brings to life issues that are typically shied away from in our society. Pi, the main character of the book, believes that the Christian, Muslim, and Hindu gods are all the same, and that humanity simply has different perceptions of that god. "Vishnu preserve me, Allah protect me, Christ save me, I can't bear it." This excerpt shows Pi's belief in the unity of all religions' gods, and demonstrates his true affiliation with religion. He does not worry over the details of the religion, and embraces all three as being true. I believe that the point that Martel is making within his novel needs to be emphasized throughout the world. Countless wars, battles, and fights have broken out because of religion. Families separate, countries wage war against one another, and lives are pointlessly ruined or lost. Yann Martel is trying to make the point that religion can coexist, and that we clearly all come from the same God, and therefore should not fight based on our different perceptions of Him. This theme is reoccurring throughout the book, and is (in my opinion) the most important point the book has to offer. Martel truly has his own manner of writing style. Never before have I read a book that crafts such magnificent imagery or flows in the lucidity that Life of Pi does. His inspirational message of persevering through the worst is emulated by many stories, but is uniquely created as his own in his novel. Overall, I believe this novel meets the criteria of being considered a classic, and should be treated as such in our schools and lives. Its many relevant messages will hold true throughout time, and will always appeal to those who discover them.
Life of Pi is unarguably a fantastic, mind-shaking, thought-provoking novel. There is evidence of that throughout the whole book. Undoubtedly, Yann Martel is “an author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step” Martel opens up the possibilities behind religion. He demands that each reader to revise what they think they already know about themselves. Most people have a one religion that they follow and believe, they feel that their religions are correct and all others are wrong. Yet in Life of Pi, Martel makes the reader question their own thoughts about religion. Martel has “revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered”. Life of Pi is “sane and beautiful in itself” and creates emotions in the audience of the reader just as if they were really there experiencing it for themselves. Martel can relate to all audiences and all ages. The story is of a young boys struggle for life, surely everyone somewhere has a struggle in life, even if it is not life or death, or big or small. We all have struggles. Martel has “spoken to all in his own peculiar style” and “has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth”. Martel writes beautifully and is gifted immensely. His style makes the reader feel accepted invites them into the story. He writes as if he has experienced this all for himself and is now telling his own story. This style of writing becomes relatable to the reader. Martel writes with “a style which is found to be also that of the whole world”. I argue that Martel’s Life of Pi is “easily contemporary with all time” because in history and in the future there will always be struggles between life and death, the situation that Pi is in has happened in the past and could happen again in the future. Also, religion will always exist. Religions may change and evolve but they will always exist, because religion is a major part of the novel, it is relatable to all times including the past, present, and future. Therefore, I would argue and support that Yann Martel’s Life of Pi is “a classic that must be canonized”.
Stensrud 2
Has Martel truly composed a classic? Has he “enriched the human mind”? I believe Martel has done just that. He captivates his readers in “Life of Pi”. His short, informative chapters are strategically placed to the point of perfection. He continues to test his readers causing their minds “to advance a step”. Every chapter allows us to logically ponder what message he is getting through to us. The way Pi lives his life challenges the reader to be a better human, daily. Martel not only “revealed some eternal passion in” the heart of Pi, but also in the heart of the reader. He is opening us up to believe in what we cannot see, and to broaden our views to things we feel are different. I believe Martel’s “moral” is hope. Hope in faith, each other, and in life. He pulls in elements that tend to be “found to be also that of the whole world” such as religion, food, family, and love. Martel’s lessons can teach generations “new and old”. Religion is a large part of the book; religion can be dated back many, many years, and tends to be a common link between generations, and cultures. Martel expresses his thoughts in the book, which shine through when reading it. His hard work has earned his fame and success and I feel that his book should be a classic. He masterfully pulls together elements of multiple cultures and religions teaching his readers that we aren’t all that different. While teaching, Martel entertains and allows each reader to feel emotion and passion for what they are indulging in. I believe that Life of Pi deserves all the fame and recognition it has received and will receive in the future. Martel’s book will most definitely be “easily contemporary with all time”.
Gacke 2
I honestly do not think it is questionable whether Life of Pi is a classic or not. “An author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step,” is exactly who Yann Martel is. Through the mind-altering character Piscine Molitor Patel, Martel pleasantly forces us to think in a new way. Perspectives most of us have never even dreamed of are present throughout the novel, and these perspectives may live through the readers if so they choose. Pi deals with struggles that will outlast the span of time--struggles of acceptance, of religion, of life, of imagination. Yann Martel’s style of writing flows effortlessly, his words holding so much meaning in a single sentence that an individual could decipher it in countless ways. And because of this, his work is “easily contemporary with all time,” as Martel provides readers to connect in their own way, personally and limitlessly.
Above all, Yann Martel “has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion.” Martel has clearly mastered this aspect of a classic. After reading the entire novel, so many eternal passions were revealed to me. The mindset of Pi’s acceptance of three religions struck me the most, and lingered with me through every page of the novel, even when religion was not the main topic. Pi did not see the three religions as separate, but as one--a unity. He acknowledged that he came from God, and that God was present in every religion, and in every person--whether that person cared to admit it or not. In addition to (and connecting to) his idea of religion is Pi’s perspective on faith and life in general. Martel teaches us through Pi that we have to believe more than just what we see in order to live a life that holds any significance at all. Our lives are what we make of it, and our imagination and faith in what is unseen only makes our lives more believable. And if that does not make a novel a classic, I don’t know what would.
Murtha 5
Life of Pi should and will be canonized as a classic in literature. Yann Martel is one, “who has expressed his thought, observation, or invention” in throughout the entire novel. In my prior research I found that he had brainstormed the idea of his famous book from a New York Times story. He took a short story related to Life of Pi and made it his own. He invented a way to have the Tsimtsum sink and the animals to run rampant on the boat. Martel also created his own twist of having the tiger, Richard Parker, present on Pi’s long and tiring journey to encounter land or human life. Mr. Martel found a “a style new without neologism, new and old”. He took old ideas and made them new. He took a style of writing that I have become in-love with. He mixes old meanings that relate to the bible, but present and hint at them in new ways. Life of Pi has an even distribution of simple, complex, compound, and compound-complex sentences that keep the audience on their toes. The author “had enriched the human mind” with a variety of ways to stay alive when you are a cast away. For instance the way the Pi uses turtle fat to grease his prized possessions to try and keep them useful for as long as possible. He expresses his observation and new knowledge base that he receives from reading assorted survival articles, books, and biographies. Martel did his research to make every word in Life of Pi have a meaning. Pi, “has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth” while he travels on the open waters. He finds truth in God. That God can save and protect you from anything, even a tiger. Without a doubt in my mind Life of Pi should be canonized as a classic. In my eyes, it will always be a classic and a favorite.
Dreyer 2
Should Life of Pi be "canonized"? The answer, without question, is most definitely yes. Yan Martel is truly "an author who has enriched the human mind..." Martel not only draws the reader in with a adventurous tale of young Pi Patel and the ferocious Richard Parker, but he also provokes many life questioning thoughts throughout. Martel has "caused it [the mind] to advance a step;". For one, he has caused me to think about my life and certain beings that control my behavior. He has caused me to envision what I what do if in a situation like Pi's and I continue to wonder if my human instincts would push me to do the things he has done. He has surely "revealed some eternal passion in the heart where all seemed known and discovered." Martel questions the known in his novel, unifying it with the unknown. He explains fear and madness and relationships with God and other beings more powerful than ourselves.
Not only is Life of Pi "broad and great", "refined and sensible" and "sane and beautiful" all at the same time, it can be described as "easily contemporary with all time." The plot line of the novel will be relatable for many decades to come. Martel perfectly weaves intelligence and instincts of humans into a struggle of internal and external proportions. Much of the novel will remain ambiguous. Was Richard Parker intended to be read on the surface as the dangerous cat he seems? Or was he intended to be an extension of Pi--one who brings out the true savagery in him? Richard Parker is continuously thanked by Pi after they get rescued. Pi says he would not have survived without him. The style and thought provoking statements in Life of Pi most definitely make it part of the literary canon.
Bingen 7
Like most great novels, “Life of Pi” proves to relay meaning through a scenario seemingly unrelated to everyday life. After all, the whole idea of being stuck on a lifeboat with a tiger in the middle of the Pacific Ocean seems far-fetched to me. At any rate, “Life of Pi” manages to effectively use symbolism to do exactly what Martel says that a great author and novel should: “enrich the human mind, increase its treasure, and cause it to advance a step.” I think that extracting symbols and themes from literature is one of the best things that students can do in order to advance their minds a step. The most memorable symbol up to this point for me was the zebra. I have no doubt that it was intended to be a Christ figure as it was essentially crucified by the hyena. The zebra was sliced open in its side,and was tortured extensively prior to its death, just like Jesus was while on the cross. Similarly christ-like, it did not fight back more than a couple of times nor did it complain much during its suffering. Many more symbols exist in this novel, but the zebra is the one that resonates with me the most.
Indeed, the profound symbols found in this novel could easily cause “Life of Pi” and Martel himself to be canonized. However, the use of such symbols are not unique to this novel or any other. I think that Martel’s integration of philosophy into his literature is what puts him and his literature above and beyond all other canonized works that I have read. Also, even after studying my chapter for analysis for a short period of time, I felt my mind enriched from what I found to be Martel’s philosophical, profound opinions about life and death in relation to fear. In this chapter, Pi says that only fear can defeat life, and it is obvious from the rest of the novel that life does not give up easily. For example, both the first turtle that Pi kills and the zebra vehemently fight off death until the very end, and I predict that nature’s iron will to live will continue to be a central theme throughout the rest of the novel.
Pearce 1
Should “Life of Pi” be considered a classic and can author Yann Martel be canonized? Based upon reading this book, I would say that the answer to both questions is yes.
This book should be considered a classic and without a doubt, Martel should be canonized. The character that Martel has created in Pi Patel is truly amazing. In no other book is there a character that practices three different religions at the same time. This goes along with the “who has enriched the human mind” part of the definition provided above. Not only does he have three religions in the same character, he also has this character closely bond with an atheist. This atheist is his favorite school teacher, Mr. Kumar who teaches biology. By doing this, Martel creates a connection between three of the major religions in the world and atheism. No other author has done this. The style that Martel has is truly unique and different from all other authors that I have read before. In the definition above, it says “who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.” This applies perfectly to Martel. No other author has done what he has done in this book. Creating a character like this is just pure genius, especially in a work like today. In today’s world, religion has become a point of conflict for many people. I believe that creating a character that dabbles in three major religions was done not just because Martel had been experienced to all of these religions in his world travels, but also because of the religious conflicts going on in the world today. He created a character that can be considered a unifying figure that connects all of these regions.
Grage 2
I believe that Yann Martel is a classic author. He is a genius writer who thoroughly plans out his books so that we can think deeper into the book and forever be able to read it. He doesn’t just write a book to make money off of it, he writes it to share his thoughts and passion with people who are interested. His writing isn’t just for people in this generation; this book can be talked about for generations to come. His book “Lord of the Flies” doesn’t just entertain people in our country, but from countries all over the world. Having Pi worship three religions is pure genius because he can some what relate to most of the people in the world because he chose the three most common religions. This makes the reader interpret the “God” Pi is referring to as what ever the reader wants the God to be. In this book Martel taught me plenty of things about wild life and the tendencies of animals that might come in handy later on in life. His story is amazing and makes you over think certain events that happen, you start to fill in the missing pieces in your mind and it makes the story that much more enjoyable because you can decide the outcome in a way and he gives you that power as the reader. I enjoy on how most of his book, “The Life of Pi”, describes things extremely vivid and detailed. I really enjoy this because I find it hard to read books that I can not create an image in my head of what is going on. I usually prefer to watch the movie rather than read the book, but with this book it almost felt like I was watching the movie with the imagery that I could create in my head.
I believe that although "Life of Pi" fits many of the requirements of a book to be classified as a classic,it does not fit every one, and in turn will not become a classic novel.
Yann Martel is "an author who has enriched the human mind" but I do not think that the book could really be said to increase the treasure of the human mind nor cause it to advance. "Life of Pi" shows many truths about both humanity and nature; however, it is not really a "discovery" of a moral or truth.
Martel definitely expresses his thoughts through the book in an interesting way--including many unique situations, but the writing style is not solely his. Many authors writer in the stream of consciousness writing we see in this book.
I love reading the book (and have gotten a lot from the book). I think it is interesting and would suggest reading it. There are many ways that one could "read into the book and get a lot of meaning out of it. Despite this, I do not believe that Yann Martel's "Life of Pi" fills the requirements that it takes to be a classic in literature throughout history.
Presler 2
Is Life of Pi a classic, and should it be canonized? No.
Glancing through the comments, the majority seem to extol Life of Pi's unique perspective on religion. To me, on a strictly religious basis, the story does not seem to yield any new information at all. In this respect, Yann Martel has not "enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step." Indeed, the story purports to make you believe in God, but many stories already exist to perform the same function. In case you are wondering, they can be found in such books as the Bible, the Quran, the Upanishads, etc. Therefore, on this note Martel has not "discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered." (Can all ever even seem known or discovered about religion anyway? I certainly do not think so.)
Nevertheless, Yann Martel "has expressed his thought, observation, or invention, in no matter what form...in his own peculiar style." Although this style grows tiresome and irritating to me, I cannot deny that it has been largely unprecedented in my reading experience, yet I can neither confirm nor deny that such a style is "easily contemporary with all time."
I fear I have been too negative thus far. On the whole, I have enjoyed Life of Pi, but the story has intrigued me more on a psychological than a religious level. Being in the mind of a teenage Indian boy is a new experience for me, and his idiosyncrasies are captivating. However, an interesting protagonist does not a classic make.
So, did Martel write a fantastic novel? Yes, in my opinion, it can. But, again, in no way can it be deemed a classic, nor should it be canonized.
Yann Martel’s novel, Life of Pi, is a truly astounding work of art. In my opinion, it most definitely falls into that definition of a canonized book. Martel has certainly “enriched the human mind” in multiple ways. Not only is his colorful use of imagery entertaining to the brain, but he also has worked on the breaking of cultural and religious barriers by making the novel so diverse. The “moral truth” he has discovered is a unity between religions. Pi has a great quote from the story where he says that if there is only one place in the sky then all passports should be accepted. Martel “expressed his thought…in form…sane and beautiful itself.” His pages are marvelously put together with breathtaking imagery. One strategy that he utilizes is how he uses animals symbolically throughout the story. The style that Yann uses is clearly “his own peculiar style.” This is best represented through the way he has his chapters laid out. We know that he had rearrange his chapters multiple times before publishing Life of Pi, and some of his unique chapters are extremely short – the best being a mere two words! While is style is unparalleled, the grey area could incorporate, “easily contemporary with all time.” Styles and literary teaching evolves at an incredible rate every generation. As of our age now, this is a novel that utilizes our current knowledge, vocab, and ideas; in a few years Martel’s work might not be considered contemporary. In the end, I think the argument of canonization is pointless. What is it aside from an opinion? To me, it is like arguing whether or not your activity is a sport. Just because a novel is not canonized does not mean it is not a great literary work. That aside, I believe that Life of Pi fits the criteria, and should be forever known as a canon-worthy story.
Smith 7
Charles Augustin Sainte-Beuve’s definition of “What Is A Classic?” descriptively defines the Life Of Pi in many aspects. The Life of Pi’s audience believes in Richard Parker and Pi, as actual characters. Does this not enrich the human mind? As a reader, you become involved within Martel’s story. Is ones heart not completely fulfilled with pure passion and belief of this account, quickly craving for more and more portrayed in every sentence? The characteristics of Pi are very loving and distinctive. Forcing readers to love Pi, and love his story is easy to master. The master himself compels us to understand new meanings and forget what we thought was acceptable. Creating new ideas that are worth comprehending is rewarding and mind improving. The various symbols and perplexity of the different words, sentences, and chapters, force one to not only look at the obvious/classic meaning, but also examine the rare explanations within the meanings. Martel has unusual way of connecting with his readers and telling a story that strangely, many can connect with. I believe he can connect ones by showing people what it means to have faith. Faith in God, faith in spirit, faith in love, or simply faith in oneself. Faith is key in any religion. Martell describes a boy who is stranded on a dessert with a tiger in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, but yet keeps his faith in God, Richard Parker, and in himself. A young boy who follows three unlike religions seems to have a lot of uncertainty and ambiguity of what he truly wants/believes. But Martell made one thing for sure. He made sure Pi had the strongest faith to be able to endure within this rich and unpromising world. This book portrays one thing. A classic.
West 1
Martel has undoubtedly composed a classic with his novel “Life of Pi”. “An author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step...” Martel has certainly done all of these. He brings to light many issues, the largest being religion, and having Pi belief in three different religions but that the one God is related to all of these gods. Martel provokes anybody that reads this to think about and consider his or her own faith. The novel could either destroy his or her beliefs, or strengthen them greatly. This both enriches readers and forces them to take a step, either forward or back. Martel increases a reader's level of thought by making them consider what is real and what is not, and what is impossible and what is possible. The floating island of algae could be possible. At first I thought that it was another hallucination, coming right after one of him talking to someone that was not there; but after thinking about it, it is possible. Martel makes you think about everything in this novel--not just about what is in the book, but applying it to the readers life and the readers beliefs.
“Or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered”. Martel definitely reveals a different topic, being a person that beliefs in more than one religion. I had never heard of someone like this until the novel “Life of Pi”. It is a completely brand new discovery which strengthens the fact that “Life of Pi” is a classic.
Zahn 5
Yann Martel has without a doubt composed a classic that must be and will be canonized. He has “enriched the human mind” by captivating the world with Life of Pi. Composed of exactly 100 short chapters, Life of Pi makes readers question their thoughts about religion. It opens up the doors to other religions that readers may have never even thought about. Pi, the main character in the book, considers himself as a Hindu, Christian, and Muslim. Pi believes that there is one God but humanity has different views of that God, and because of that there are many religions. When people tell Pi that he cannot be all three religions, he asks them why not, and says that he only wants to love God. He doesn’t listen to them and embraces all three religions. I think that Yann Martel has “expressed his thoughts” about religion through this book. Through Life of Pi, Martel is trying to say that religion can coexist and that we all come from the same God. Life of Pi is “sane and beautiful in itself” because it takes its audience on a rollercoaster of emotions. One minute we are laughing with Pi and the next we are crying with him. The way Martel wrote Life of Pi, makes readers feel as though they are with Pi on that lifeboat. The readers get Pi’s every thought and emotions. Martel also writes as if he has gone through all this for himself and is now telling someone the story. Writing in style makes the story more relatable to readers. Overall, I believe that one day, this book will become a classic. The book will be relatable to every era because religion is practically the center of the book and in most families, religion plays a major role.
Fritz 5
Do I believe Martel has composed a classic? Of course, but I do not believe it has been fully recognized as a classic just yet, for it has not been out long enough. Personally as a reader he has “enriched my human mind” as he went against society’s normal views. For instance he has his main character Pi, practice three religions; something that is against the everyday norm. Even with that he added another character, who happens to be atheist, as one of Pi’s favorite teachers. By doing this he “revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known.” I personally have never read a novel where the character practices three religions. Never in a million years would I think of anyone doing that! The book can also be classified as canonized because he added in his own style by making it exactly 100 chapters. Like many others, I found this novel beautiful in the sense that a tiger and a teen boy could go the whole journey without killing one another. They formed a bond, which some humans do not even get to experience in their lifetime. I also feel that in every chapter Martel added his personal thought. The whole book is kind of opinion based. The way Pi reacts is how Martel portrays a boy would act like if he were stranded at sea. With his thought, he caused people to “advance a step” by making them put themselves in Pi’s shoes. How would I handle this situation? If all of these characteristics I have listed do not make this novel a classic, I do not know what could. Life of Pi has become a new favorite of mine as I feel Martel put his whole heart into writing it!
Onnen 2
Yann Martel's Life of Pi definitely "enriches the human mind" and "increased its treasure". At least I know this novel has done that for me and obviously many other students (based on the above comments). Martel doesn't really introduce any new form of religion at all in this novel but he gives us new ideas at how to look at religion. His idea that we can believe in more than one faith is an idea that has absolutely stuck with me. But Martel doesn't force his belief (if that is in fact what he actually believes) onto the reader he merely "provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself". Many other viewpoints on faith are presented in just the first part of this novel. Martel in no way makes the reader feel that they need to agree with Pi's views on religion.
The definition states an author "who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style...a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time." I think Martel has done all of this with his novel Life of Pi. He presents the story is a very unexpected setting. With over half the novel taking place in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, on a lifeboat with a Bengal Tiger and a 16 year-old boy, I don't see how that can't be see as "peculiar". But, as we learned from researching Yann Martel he got his inspiration from a past novel who had also created a novel about a deserted lifeboat lost in the ocean. This means that Martel's story isn't "new" and he adds new twists to the novel that definitely keep it from being "old". Overall, I believe Martel has accomplished nearly all of the requirements of becoming a "canonized" piece of literature.
Knudtson 5
Life of Pi is an thought-provoking book, Yann Martel has “enriched the the human mind.” His book pushes you to your limit of belief, not only the choice of two stories, the idea of coming upon another castaway sailor in the Pacific Ocean, but also in faith. Martel took three religions and wrote this novel making them coincide in Pi’s life. Though faith does not always mean religion, it can be faith in yourself, or others around you. Yann helped show us great examples of faith as Pi lives with a 450-pound Bengal tiger. Pi Patel has faith in Richard Parker as he trains him as the Beta male. He writes of moral that must be known, ones of willingness to live! When Pi gives up on life, when he tells Richard Parker he is ready to die, he comes upon an island in the middle of the Pacific as it floats on, like much of the flotsam in the ocean never to be seen again. This carnivorous island represents religion, Pi has given up and he uses religion to continue on in life, this is a timeless technique that can be used by any religious person. With religion lasting for thousands of years, I believe it will help this novel become “easily contemporary with all time.” Yann Martel has a very idiosyncratic style of writing. His writings are fraught with graphic words making this book very hard to put down as I immerge myself into it. I believe this book will become canonized, though it yet has to withstand the test of time and changing cultures.
Kruse 1
What I find quite interesting in the scheme of Life of Pi’s success is that the novel did not really get big until the movie came out. After the press from the film, and Academy Awards, etcetera, the book’s popularity exploded. Without the film, would the book have become as popular and widely regarded? I know that some, including Mr. C, were fans of the book immediately, but it is just something I have been muddling over. I believe that Martel has certainly “enriched the human mind.” If an author puts effort forth, any novel can become enriching. Even the silliest teen girl books I have read have enriched my mind, by helping me become more aware of different circumstances. Everything you learn can be related to other books, and this is the great network that is born in our minds when we read. Yann Martel also ignites passions about religion and other themes through his book, whether this passion is discussed in forums or kept to oneself, it is still there. His expression of thought is truly beautiful, and communicates with the reader personally. The “peculiar style” of his great novel inspires jealousy; the words flow and varied chapter lengths and perspectives enrich the story. It can be canonized easily, and has been by our class and many others. It is imperative for students to enjoy the books they read for class to gain the most insight, to add the most to intellectual conversation, and to grow personally. The stories must be relatable, and I would argue that this story is. Pi is our age, has had a normal childhood, and struggles with religion and where he belongs, something that most young people do. I would say, that due to these factors, Life of Pi is unarguably a new classic.
Paul 2
Yann Martel’s Life of Pi is indubitably a classic. “An author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step,” is precisely who Martel is. Because the main character has different beliefs, readers are challenged to understand and accept a new perspective. He has caused me to think differently about my life and put myself into Pi’s position throughout his journey even making me question if I would stoop to an animalistic level to survive. Life of Pi brought out the child in me by requiring the use of my imagination in order to fully enjoy not only the book but also the movie.
Martel is a classical writer “who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.” He has successfully created his own advanced style of writing while using an old style from a cherished book—the bible. Yann Martel’s smooth and well thought out writing style allows each reader to gather unique ideas from a single sentence.
Martel “Discovered some moral and equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered” when explaining Pi’s religious beliefs. He introduced a new idea including all religions as one. I believe there is a deeper message being depicted. To me, throughout the novel Martel is showing how similar we are to animals, maybe due to society and our desperation to fit in. With such a high percentage of Christians it becomes “normal” to participate in the faith even if you do not agree with the beliefs. Martel demonstrates through Piscine how there is not necessarily a right or wrong religion; any faith an individual chooses to accept or not accept is what they should practice.
Overall, Martel is a classical writer because of his style of writing, perspective, and the lessons he taught us in Life of Pi.
Noah Klamm 2
While “Life of Pi” is a very good book and is well written and refined I have a hard time believing most books in our time and age deserve to be canonized. I believe most of the, “moral and not equivocal truth(s),” have already been discovered. Any time I think of a book that has been canonized or should be canonized it is either an old book that many generations have been able to learn from or it is a book that has so revolutionized a genre that without said book the genre would be unrecognizable. Some examples of the first criteria would be “The Lord of the Flies”, “To Kill a Mockingbird”, “The Great Gatsby”, and “Wuthering Heights.” These novels and plays have been studied extensively for so many years that they have been imbedded in western culture and study. I have never read many of the works that can be considered canonized but they are so famous and ubiquitous in our culture that I know the general story of many of them and recognize their name. I don’t believe “Life of Pi” has or will reach this level of extended study. However, it is too soon to rule it out. Only time will tell if it will become canonized. While Martel’s book has been widely popular and read by many people I don’t believe it has revolutionized its genre like other novels have. For example, “The Lord of the Rings” series created its own genre entirely and many books followed the same format that it laid out. I don’t believe this is true with “Life of Pi.” It seems to be just like every other book of fiction. While the book is “refined and sensible” it is not unique in that respect. Many books are well written and riddled with literary devices but they have not been canonized much like “Life of Pi” will likely not be. “Life of Pi” is a very good book but I don’t believe it deserves to be included in the list of literary canons that should be studied and read by all because it is not revolutionary enough and is too new to have stood the test of time.
In writing "Life of Pi," Martel has weaved a remarkable tale of survival, hope, faith, etc. Before I talk about whether or not I believe Life of Pi should be canonized, I’d like to give my thoughts on the literary canon.
I’m of the opinion that the idea of a literary canon is inherently silly. Though the majority of literature in the English canon is incredible and the stories filled with universal truths, I despise the idea of some committee choosing which ones are the best. It seems rather obvious that literature speaks to some differently than others (and, to some, not at all). An obvious example I can call to mind is "Catcher in the Rye." Though this is most likely the best book I’ve ever read and I won’t hesitate to tell others how I feel about it, I know of others who can’t stand it. Just because I enjoy a book doesn’t mean that others will. My largest problem with the canon, then, is the idea of being told to like something because everyone else enjoys it.
That said, if I were on some silly committee charged with canonizing literature, I don’t think I’d nominate "Life of Pi." The novel is beautifully written, for the most part, and rigorously proofread and edited. I sometimes felt I was on the boat with Pi during his various trials. The human molar horrified me as much as can be expected. The general attitude of the novel was one of tolerance, of benevolence towards others. However, I cannot bring myself to agree with Martel’s premise, that religion should be adopted merely to make someone feel better about the world they live in. Though I admire Martel’s idea, I think he grossly oversimplifies religion. If someone wants to believe in some higher power, I’ve absolutely no issue with them. The freedom to believe whatever one wishes: the beauty of America in a few words. The problem, then, is that oftentimes belief in a deity isn’t enough—subscription to one holy book or another, with its various restrictions and requirements, is vital to achieving bliss in the afterlife. Pi never confronted claims about the exclusiveness of religions. Even today, some wishing to leave Islam are labeled as apostates and subsequently murdered because of things written in Islamic texts, the hadiths.
All in all, "Life of Pi" is personal, stylish, simple—but dangerous.
I am very torn with this question. I have looked at it many times trying to convince myself that Life of Pi should certainly be classified as a literary novel because I enjoyed reading the novel so much--but if I said that, I would be contradicting my instincts. I adored reading about Pi Patel, and I am sure I will revisit him again, but something just stops me from saying it should be canonized. Maybe it is the fact that when I like of a classic, I still think of the early stories of Shakespeare and Jane Austen. I know this is a horrible idea of the classics, but I can’t help it. Possibly I won’t classify Life of Pi as a classic because I don’t want to group it with stories often not thrilling to many teenagers because Pi’s story is thrilling, and profound, and vulgar, and fantastic. But I do think Pi’s story is at bare minimum “broud and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful” but the thing about Life of Pi is that is so much more than that. It teaches tolerance in a close minded world; it shows how much reputations shape opinions; it shows that “a person can get used to anything, even killing.”
Yann Martel’s style is astounding. He put in so much effort adding little finds in his book (such as Pi is at sea for 227 days and 22/7 is approximately 3.14). I have heard an abundance of complaints about how often Martel references different aspects of India, or Islamic symbols, or Hindu scareds, but that is what I loved about the novel. It would not make any sense if during Pi’s time on the lifeboat he imagined hot dogs and potato chips because that is not what he typically eats (one because he is a vegetarian and 2 because I feel it is a very “American” meal). Because Martel immersed himself, and his readers into Indian culture, he “enriched the human mind.” And if a reader is from India, they will be enriched by Pi’s determination and Martel’s acceptance.
Basically, no matter how much I love this novel, and no matter the fact that I could piece every phrase in that definition to Martel or Life of Pi , I cannot bring myself to call it a classic--because it is so much more and should not be defined by a label.
Smith, 5
Beyond question, the classic novel “Life of Pi” by Yann Martel can be specified as an irreplaceable, life-changing narrative that has undoubtedly been canonized. “an author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step”—Yann Martel deliberately achieves this by including an exclusive, unexpected and undesirable journey in the Pacific Ocean taken by Pi. Piscine carried a full load of endurance with his new furry companion, where any human could take special note from. Every day, Pi advanced a step into survival, where us beings internally need to contemplate on Yann Martel’s purpose. “Life-changing” without a doubt. After getting lost into Yann Martel’s solely creation, gathering riches and resources was just a reward but truthfully altered many views and believing interpretations.
“who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered; who has expressed his though, observation, or invention” Piscine Patel, grew up with determination to find the ultimate religion. His passion grew every time he was introduced into a new religion, as the book referenced his religions symbolically all throughout the novel. Pi pushed his beliefs into one—thus creating the strategic book that was based off of his morals. Therefore creating an unstoppable willpower to comprehend and value ‘the God’
“who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style” Yann Martel’s indescribable writing makes it the best. With deep thought and critical exertion, he purposely produces an exact 100 chapters. Fullness and connection was needed for the symbolized 100 chapters. Yann Martel makes his novel a guarantee to be able to connect to the reader. The 93 page exposition is to make you an unsurpassed friends with Piscine Patel, and his journey is to uncover yourself into Pi Patel’s position, finalizing “Life of Pi” to be categorized under the awe-inspiring Canon.
Yann Martel wrote a very good book. Being a difficult read in the beginning because of all the information, but after pushing through your rewarded is great. You learn so much about people and yourself throughout this book that you may have never thought about before. Pi goes from being a very strict vegetarian to a cannibal. This shows that even the best people will turn to anything for survival. Martel is giving the read a good look into the mind or a despite boy. Having the 1st person point of view allows the reading see into the boys mind. This book is a dramatic change from a religion loving boy with not a care into a starving boy fighting for life. It’s a hard to believe book. There are very realistic points that could easily happen to anyone taking a boat ride. Then there are those fantastic parts that there is just no way that they could be possible. Like the meerkat island. This is part of Martel’s true ability. It takes a lot to write such an elaborate story with so many fine details. There are also many moments of passion between Pi and Richard Parker. Martel may be trying to give the reader the idea that even though two people are very different they can still be friends. If a young boy and an adult tiger can live on a boat for over 200 days you should be able to get along with someone that you may not like or agree with. There have been many stories about people getting stranded with wild animals and other unfortunate events, but there is no other book of a young boy getting stranded on a boat with a tiger. Especially when they are both on the boat for such a long time. Martel wrote a very good book. People all over the world have read this book and it is an excellent example of a classic book.
As a general rule, I believe that we all like to think of our favorite things as “classic”, whether it be our favorite book, a hilarious movie, or even a bottle of Coca-cola. When recommending things to others , we jump to impressive, reliable explanation, “oh, it’s a classic!” in order to discern ourselves as an expert and to selfishly raise our own esteem. But, should such a haughty word be thrown around so casually? If we want the term to have any value at all, then absolutely not! Did I enjoy reading “Life of Pi”? Undoubtedly. Does it belong in the literary canon beside authors like Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, Ernest Hemingway and others? I’m not so sure. Martel has surely crafted an engaging, entertaining novel. However, the definition given to us implies that a book must draw forth a grand epiphany in all readers, develop a style that is unique but not too outlandish, and possess a timeless quality. If my understanding of these requirements is correct, then I feel that “Life of Pi” has met all but one absolutely crucial element.
On page x of the Author’s Note it reads, “I have a story that will make you believe in God.” Without a doubt, this is the enlightenment Martel was trying to elicit from the reader. Calling myself a “religious-skeptic” is probably putting it the kindest way possible. Therefore, before the story even began, I knew that Martel was going to have a heavy task of convincing me. However, I went into the reading with as open a mind as possible, and I came out of it disappointed at best. I admit, throughout the first section of the novel, Martel was starting to sway me. But, after the ship sank and Pi’s focus turned purely to survival, I feel like the momentum simply died out. The uniqueness of Pi’s three religions, the lessons he learned from them, the way they were all intricately intertwined--it all seemed forgotten--useless even--until the very end when Pi had unfathomably quick answers to every affront, complete with historical allusions, new factual information, and profound insight on the world. By the time religion popped back up in the story, the strength it had at the beginning was all but withered away. I realize that another might argue the point that the second version of Pi’s tale is what is supposed to make the reader believe in the first. So, if I believe the first story, I believe in God? If I like apples, do I automatically like oranges? No. I finished the novel no closer to believing in God than when I started. Maybe I’m being too critical and not reading deep enough, but I don’t think Martel achieved the enlightenment he was after. He told a good story; he invented an intriguing character. But has he “enriched the human mind”? In my case, no.
All this being said, I sincerely hope that I am wrong. I hope that in the future “Life of Pi” becomes a canonized classic. In the grand scheme of things, my opinion is trivial. I do not make up all of humankind. Besides, if I am right, the world gains nothing. If I am wrong, people 100 years from now will be studying Pi’s journey and maybe, just maybe, it will inspire someone to believe in God.
Ellis pd 7
Yann Martel has created a marvelous adventure story that enriches any person who reads it. Not only does the reader learn lessons on faith, but on companionship, and endurance. The message Martel expresses is one of tolerance and even empathy between religions. His two conflicting characters are a tiger and a Indian boy. Not only are they different in species, but in eating habits, social habits, and living habitat preferences. However, they have a common goal of survival, and because of this aim survive 227 days together at sea. As a reader our eyes are opened and we develop an outlook on religion we did not have before. Martel changes our thought on such a firm opinion as religion. The book is so influential because even though the story is spectacular, it still is probable.
Life of Pi is not told in time order because the narrator is a common story teller jumping from event to event like your great-grandmother reminiscing about when she was a girl. This style is different and actually helps us follow the relationship between Pi and Richard Parker better. We are constantly reminded that Richard Parker is not a cuddly pet, but a ferocious beast while still observing a bond forming between these contrasting characters.
Martel’s book first became famous after 911 because like Kite Runner it was from the viewpoint of a Muslim. What made this story different then Kite Runner was its message. People could not comprehend how a person live with a terrorist Muslim, let alone be a Muslim, a Hindu and a Christian. His book did not just help advance the mind of his readers, the story will influence many more readers because Life of Pi does not just dabble on a new and ephemeral idea. This topic of religion has been fought over for centuries and will continue for a long time.
I believe that the only factor that hinders "Life of Pi" from being known as a classic is time. In all other respects the novel delivers exceptionally. The entire definition speaks to what Martel has done with his novel but I think the phrase: “[an author] who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered” best speaks to what Martel wrote. He took a risk combining the major world religions in his novel, but in doing so showed that they have many of the same passions and motives, even if their ideologies differ. This is expertly expressed through the eyes of a boy that can see past theological barriers, and is able to accept wisdom and truth in all forms. Though thousands of books have been written about various religions, few take the perspective that Martel does in approaching them, and fewer still do so in novel form. The definition also speaks of an author: “who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.” Martel meets this as well due to his incredible attention to detail. The story is also universal, crossing cultural borders; after all, Pi is an Indian boy on a Japanese ship sailing across the Pacific to Canada. Because of these circumstances the narrative owes no allegiance to a flag or nation and in doing so can take on a broader meaning. When given some thought, it could be argued that the story is timeless as well. Pi uses little to no modern technology, and the same story, absurd though it may be, could have happened 100 or 1000 years ago with a few minor changes. With that perspective, it is very possible that this story may be remembered and celebrated for equally as far into the future.
Without a doubt, Life of Pi is an incredible and education novel. And without a doubt, Martel's novel should be canonized. He "has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth" in the manner of religion. Martel proves to us that the three most widely practiced religions, and often the most widely fought over, can coexist. Through Pi, Martel urges us to seek not the cold, hard facts about the religions, but rather the moral treasures. In reality, all three religions are about doing good deeds in this life so you can flourish in the next. By allowing Pi to practice all three religions, we are opened up to the fact that they are almost one in the same. In doing so, Life of Pi also grabs the "enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step", and "revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered" requirements. Martel also achieves the "who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world..". Martel certainly has his own unique style considering he was born in Spain to Canadian parents and was raised in Costa Rica, France, Mexico, and Canada. Martel also traversed to India several times in preparation for writing his novel. By being so worldy educated, Martel has obtained different styles, dialects, dictions, and phrases from all over the globe. All in all, Life of Pi is certainly a novel that must absolutely be canonized.
Martinmaas 2
I believe that Yann Martel’s Life of Pi should be considered a classic. Yann Martel “enriches the human mind and increases its treasure” by introducing readers to the character Pi. Pi is an unforgettable character who makes the reader question their own faith. Through Pi, Martel proves that it is possible to believe in more than one religion. By using Pi, a teenage Indian boy, as the perspective in the book, Martel helps open the reader’s mind up more. You go through the trials that Pi goes through whether it be with his religion or his journey across the Pacific Ocean. You are able to see life through a different lens. I think that Martel’s “peculiar style” of writing a story set in the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal Tiger, makes it all the more memorable. A lot of stories can make you believe in God or make you rethink everything that you take for granted, but the way Martel intertwines such an odd character to a complex setting is unforgettable. His story made me consider many times what I would do if I were in Pi’s situation. I questioned my own human instincts and courage along with others as well. Unlike Pi, I don’t believe that I would have survived like he had. Overall, I think Yann Martel has caused the “mind to advance a step” in the Life of Pi and I think it will eventually become a classic over the years.
Swanson 7
Should Life of Pi be considered a classic be canonized? In my opinion I do believe that Yann Martel’s novel should be canonized and be considered a classic. He has “enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step.” He is definitely enriching my mind. Martel made our main character Pi Patel three different religions: Muslim, Hindu, and Christian. Martel is showing us that these three religions can coexist and that chaos will not happen because Pi is in fact all three. Martel is saying that it is okay to believe in whatever you want to, no matter how silly it may seem. He shows this with Pi believing in three religions many people say shouldn’t be mixed and coexists together. Martel is saying that these three religions are almost identical with each other. This can also include with him “discovering some moral and not equivocal truth or revealing some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered.” Faith is an important word in this book. Martel helps show faith to us readers with Pi having faith that he can live on the life boat with Richard Parker, a 500 pound Bengal tiger. Pi almost loses his faith when he talks to Richard Parker and saying that he will soon die and that he is giving up. Pi doesn’t give up his faith entirely though. The proof being the green algae island and green being the color of Islam restores the lost faith in Pi. Pi continues to use religion throughout the rest of his life and his faith is strong. Martel isn’t trying to tell you that you must believe in God to have a good life, he just says that you have to have faith. Martel even accepts atheists’ beliefs. Martel says “Atheists are my brothers and sisters of a different faith, and every word they speak speaks of faith. Like me, they go as far as the legs of reason will carry them—and then they leap.” I truly believe that Yann Martel should be rewarded with Life of Pi to be canonized and be considered a classic.
Schroeder pd. 2
Yann Martel has truly created a fantastic novel. When I began reading this novel, all I knew was that a boy got stranded in the ocean. Martel, who definitely “has enriched the human mind and caused it to advance a step”, made it so much more than that. Martel has “revealed some eternal passion in the heart” and “has expressed his thought” by showing his views on religion. At the beginning of the novel Pi was taught at a young age that any other religion but his own is scary and he should stay away from. As he begins to discover and study the other religions, he learns that all religion’s base is love. Martel is letting the reader know that we should accept other’s religions or the lack thereof. The way he places elements of Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity throughout the novel is magnificent. This book refers to religion throughout its entirety which applies to “new and old.” Religion has always been existent and I think will always be here.
Several times throughout this novel I had no idea what was coming next, and I still do not. At the end of this novel Martel leaves the reader guessing which story to believe; this is not a new style, but nonetheless is still interesting. Every chapter of this novel is “refined and sensible” and placed so precisely. He keeps the reader on their toes by changing the point of view from Pi to the narrator. Reading Pi’s exact thoughts and feelings throughout the book made me feel at some points that I was in the lifeboat right next to him. Although I feel as the author has “enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step,” I do not think it should be placed in the literary canon, yet. The novels that are currently considered to be in the literary canon have been studied for years and have “spoken to all in his own peculiar style.” I do not think Life of Pi has its own style nor has created any new thoughts or ideas. This book may at some point be canonized but I think it will definitely take time.
Heidbrink 1
Can Life of Pi be considered a canon? Considering how young the novel is, it has definitely made an impact. Ask a stranger about the book, and he or she would probably be able to tell you some small detail about an Indian boy or a tiger from the book or the movie.
Let's take a look at Life of Pi through the aforementioned definition of a canon. To have created a canon, the author must have "...enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step..." Check. From a personal standpoint, I can say that Martel definitely expanded my mind and caused me to think about different subjects (such as religion) from a different perspective.
According to the definition, the author must have also "...discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered..." Martel misses the mark here. While reading the book, I never had an epiphany that caused me to rethink my life or my morals. This criteria is a tall order for any author, and not an easy task to accomplish. Continuing with the definition, the author must have "...expressed his thought, observation, or invention, in no matter what form, only provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself..." Definitely a check here, Martel expressed himself through Life of Pi in a way that is beautiful, broad, great, sensible, and both sane and insane at times. Finally, an author must have "...spoken to all in his own peculiar style...(that is) easily contemporary with all time." Another missed mark here. In order to be a canon, a work has to stand the test of time and still be relevant to the generations to come. Life of Pi has simply not had the amount of time it needs to become a canon. Who knows? In the future, if religion loses its following, Life of Pi would lose a major theme and probably be lost to the sands of time.
All in all, by my interpretation of the definition of a canon, I would say that Life of Pi is not a canon. I gave the book two out of four points for being a canon. This book has potential though, and by the end of our lifetimes, I may be proven wrong.
Eigenberg 1
Yann Martel has masterfully created this novel and deserves all the praise that comes with it. However, has he created a classic according to the above definition? I firmly believe so. At first I didn't think Martel had been able to enrich my mind, such as the way “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” had done. As I thought about it more I realized Martel had done so, just in a more passive manner. He enriched my mind by forcing me to question my faith in religion and what can actually happen. Martel forced me to do so by telling of situations that couldn’t possibly happen, yet when reflecting on my own religion, could that even happen? Also, by forcing the reader to question his/her morality, Martel “caused it to advance a step” by having the reader decide what is right and what is or isn’t reality. Being a multi-religious character, Pi increase the treasure of the human mind by telling readers that breaking the social norm may not be all that bad and can even make you a stronger person. Throughout “Life of Pi”, Yann Martel conveyed his personal beliefs in an inventive and creative way. This also follows in accordance to the definition of a classic in that “who has expressed his thought, observation, or invention… only provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself”. Yann Martel also “has spoken to all in his own peculiar style” and only he could write the why he did. By composing his author’s note to be a part of the story, causing the reader to believe in the story even more and by combining both past and present elements into his story he adds even more of his own style into this novel. Although “Life of Pi” may not be a classic, due to it being relatively new, it does have potential to be a classic in the future.
Dietz 7
“an author who has enriched the human mind…”
Martel has definitely does this in his novel. He has enriched it by combining different religions and revolving the entire book around them. This enriches the mind by incorporating different ideas throughout the entire novel. The religions have similar and different aspects and the symbolic colors are shown beautifully throughout the entire novel.
His morals and thoughts are shown throughout the entire novel, as well. He shows very specific ideas that should be analyzed by everyone and questioned whether or not they are accurate. An example of this is in Chapter 29: “People mover because of the wear and tear of anxiety. Because of the gnawing feeling that no matter how hard they work their efforts will yield nothing, that what they build up in one year will be torn down in one day by others.” This is a beautifully written paragraph. It has so much meaning and can really connect with the readers. The fear of losing everything that you have worked so hard for can be prevalent in every person’s life.
“…some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered…”
An eternal passion he mentions throughout the book is the will to survive and live. You would think that Pi would have given up a numerous amount of times but the author expresses his inner thoughts and given hope to the reader. Somehow, Pi survived. I thought that at some point in his journey, he would have reached his breaking point. Yet his faith and will power keep pushing him through. The sections of the book where Pi decides to die are written beautifully. I could feel the character giving up. Some power or God kept him going. “Blessed be that part of us that protects us from too much pain and sorrow. At the heart of life is a fuse box.” (p.180) This also shows Martel’s unique writing style that can evoke emotions from the reader.
Through the entire book he makes us question reality and fantasy.
Dietz 7
“an author who has enriched the human mind…”
Martel has definitely does this in his novel. He has enriched it by combining different religions and revolving the entire book around them. This enriches the mind by incorporating different ideas throughout the entire novel. The religions have similar and different aspects and the symbolic colors are shown beautifully throughout the entire novel.
His morals and thoughts are shown throughout the entire novel, as well. He shows very specific ideas that should be analyzed by everyone and questioned whether or not they are accurate. An example of this is in Chapter 29: “People mover because of the wear and tear of anxiety. Because of the gnawing feeling that no matter how hard they work their efforts will yield nothing, that what they build up in one year will be torn down in one day by others.” This is a beautifully written paragraph. It has so much meaning and can really connect with the readers. The fear of losing everything that you have worked so hard for can be prevalent in every person’s life.
“…some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered…”
An eternal passion he mentions throughout the book is the will to survive and live. You would think that Pi would have given up a numerous amount of times but the author expresses his inner thoughts and given hope to the reader. Somehow, Pi survived. I thought that at some point in his journey, he would have reached his breaking point. Yet his faith and will power keep pushing him through. The sections of the book where Pi decides to die are written beautifully. I could feel the character giving up. Some power or God kept him going. “Blessed be that part of us that protects us from too much pain and sorrow. At the heart of life is a fuse box.” (p.180) This also shows Martel’s unique writing style that can evoke emotions from the reader.
Through the entire book he makes us question reality and fantasy.
Jackson 2
Yes, Yann Martel has created a masterpiece of a novel that will definitely be canonized and become a classic for generations to come. Life of Pi fits the entire definition to be canonized as you listed but covers “who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered” the most. Martel goes over and over with symbols and foreshadows of different moral ideas and makes you think them through even if you think you have decided one way or another on a moral issue. As we are now, we could not truly decide what is right or wrong without being in the moment. This is where Yann Martel succeeds at making you feel the pain and struggles to give you a better sense of what is and isn’t necessary for survival. Life of Pi starts off to be a story but towards the end you feel it as an experience that answers questions about yourself that you never knew you had.
Yann Martel over exceeded at: “has expressed his thought, observation, or invention, in no matter what form, only provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself”. He shows his broad thoughts, observations, and inventions in every chapter of the book and propels the reader to think harder about the meaning of things. A great example of this is how he crafts each of the main characters into an animal with the attributes he is looking for and then tells the audience at the end through the conversation of the Japanese transport officials who is who. “A style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.” Yann Martel does have a unique style like the specific personalities of people that will make Life of Pi a treasure to read way down the road with still staying entertaining and fresh.
No. Yann Martel has written an incredible story but in no way should it be canonized. The idea that Mr. Martel has "enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step" is a complete lie. Martel, in his novel Life of Pi , simply showed the reader a fable that ultimately lacked a moral. The novel was no more than a fictitious story that lead the audience on a tale of unbelievable twists and turns. The author created no moral as the literature is nothing but a tale. If a moral was present, what would it be? Japanese people believe everything you tell them and if you perform a feat of greatness no matter what you say the Japanese will follow? Perhaps not that extreme but something similar and more “politically correct” would satisfy the average reader. There is no style to the book as it is a retelling of an event our character took part in. With no style, it cannot represent “a style which is found to be also that of the whole world”. With the idea that it could have been written at any point in time I cannot disagree. Hundreds of years ago, someone could have written a congruently fanciful narrative that would have excited the masses but that lone fact makes this not a “classic”. Overall, I refuse to give this story more credit than it has earned. It is a quality pastime but within a hundred years it will simply be another book that made a guy a lot of money. My apologies to those that disagree but the book is nowhere near “broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself” when Martel gives his tale. It is a good book but everyone above me, and probably below this comment are making it far better than it truly is.
I think that Life of Pi should be considered a classic and canonized. I really enjoyed the book, and I certainly think that is fits many of these specific qualifications for a classic. Life of Pi has an abundance of thought provoking, deep, and meaningful themes that I believe fit with “enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step”.
The views on religion were very new with Pi’s three religions, a rare combination that is never really seen or heard of. Even with this new look at religion, the book discusses old ideas and themes of each of the religions, fitting with the theme of “new and old”. I think the religious ideas can be considered a step forward for the human mind, since it is making us reflect on what we believe, why we believe, and how we act towards others who don’t believe the same thing.
The book also demonstrates the “new and old” theme with the whole subject of the story: a boy trapped on a lifeboat with a tiger. There have been stories written before about people lost as sea, and there have been stories written about tigers. Both of those themes can be considered older. Yann Martel’s combination of the two into a unique story line creates something new, kind of like Pi’s combinations of religion.
The two stories at the end of the book provoke the mind to look deeper into the story. The way the story is set up perfectly persuades the reader to pick up the book again and think deeper about what it means. That is hard to achieve, and I believe that with all these reasons, Life of Pi should be considered a classic.
Beldin 1
All who have had the opportunity to read Yann Martel’s “Life of Pi” unanimously agree this novel is a classic. No only has he created a novel beyond most authors of this time, he developed a character that challenged all that is seen as normal. He tried to push all the boundaries that were set before him, not only did he push them he blew them out of the water. Martels’ goal was never to write a novel everyone has read or heard about before. He wanted to compose something that everyone would want to read because of the rarity of it all. Martel has truly did a spectacular job or “enriching the human mind.” He wanted us to question what we as humans believe. His novel doesn’t contain lessons that are blatantly told to the reader. Martel’s novel is a composition of one epic story of survival in which he leaves numerous lessons about life.
In chapter 25, Pi has come to the realization that the religious leader around him cannot accept his beliefs. He believes the only thing that matters is him being close to God. He changes Christian churches because, he didn’t like how the priest treated him. He “no longer lingered after Friday prayer among [his] brethren.” Pi end the chapter saying he doesn’t want anyone coming between “God and me [Pi].”
Martel also does a great job of making people believe the impossible. Believing the impossible came to show the greatest in chapter 99. In this chapter Pi has just finished telling Tomohiro Okamoto and Atsuro Chihba the story of his survival. These men continually say they don’t believe his story and the more they begin to question what Pi is saying the more Pi believes. The men questioned whether bananas float; Pi proceeded to prove them wrong. My favorite part of the novel is when Pi mocks the men by telling them he only believes what he sees shortly after the men told him the exact same thing.
“Life of Pi” isn’t currently a canon. The novel becoming a canon will take many more centuries, although Martel may not see that happen I am optimistic it will be happening in the future.
Mutschelknaus 1
Undoubtedly, Yann Martel has created a literary masterpiece. To call it a classic that must be canonized, however, is a stretch. Life of Pi may have informed us about knew religions unknown to us, but does that “enrich our mind?” I do not believe it does, so I believe Life of Pi should not be canonized.
Of Mice and Men and To Kill a Mockingbird, two well known, canonized books, create a great example of what it means to be canonized. At the time they were written, racial tension was a major problem down south. In response to this, John Steinbeck and Harper Lee decided to write novels to combat the racial struggle between the whites and African Americans. Not only did these novels enrich the minds of their readers, it made society consider the consequence s of their actions and ultimately helped propel equality among all races. What has Life of Pi taught us? How to survive on a life boat with a Bengal Tiger? Do not eat tiger excrement? When will we ever have to use these lessons? The answer is never. So to say Life of Pi taught us a life altering idea, like canonized books like Of Mice and Men, is absurd.
For that reason, I believe Life of Pi is not a classic and should not be canonized at this time. To be a classic and be canonized, it takes more than sheer enjoyment one gets from reading it. We all have our own opinions on this touchy subject, but I strongly believe that it should not be canonized.
Ask. Pd. 5
Did I enjoy Life of Pi? Yes I did. Will I enjoy discussing Life of Pi in class? Yes I will. Would it be considered classic in the way we throw it around today? I believe so. "Classic" in the way it was intended? No. Life of Pi has only been around for a little more than a decade and we shouldn't get to hasty in calling it a classic or a canon. I think thats a good thing. We wouldn't want a bunch of books in the canon that we later regret admitting. I don't think that would be the case with Life of Pi, I love the book, as many do--but I want that choice to be made down the road at least 50 years from publication. If the book is still popular, and holds up then, (as I hope it does) it should be considered a classic.
(tl/dr I think it should be canonized, but we need to wait.)
As far as the definition goes, I believe Yann Martel very much "enriches" the human mind, and I really really wish that I hadn't watched the movie in cinema club when I wasn't exactly ready. I didn't enjoy the movie as a whole, as much as I enjoyed the book, and wish I could have a do over. Watching the movie, my face must have been white as snow when the alternate story was told, and would have been whiter if I had read the book first.
Yann Martel enriches the mind by offering a new side of religious tolerance, and the human nature, and how we can all become a beast. It isn't the best lessons as compared to say, Uncle Toms Cabin, but it makes us think more, which I find more valuable.
Johnson 1
There’s no doubt that Life of Pi has something to offer besides a “story”. Like the many other books we read throughout school it has a deeper meaning than its plot. Symbols, motifs, soliloquies, all apparent in Life of Pi, feel like they are directed at the reader to question, examine, and apply to their own life. I think the gullibility of the reader is important in canonizing this book. A tiger and a boy in a lifeboat, unrealistic; but a carnivorous algae island with meerkats? I think the island is more important than it seems. When Pi reaches Mexico, there is no evidence of Richard Parker, or any of the other animals; a story most thought believable in the beginning, animals and a boy in a boat. There is evidence, however, of the meerkats from the island, the least believable aspect of Pi’s survival story. This dynamic of realistic and not beckons more questions about human will, faith, and impossibilities. I think Life of Pi could definitely be a classic. It provokes the kind of discussions we normally have with the other books we have studied, maybe even more. I don’t feel like Life of Pi has only “enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step”, but has gone beyond to provoke the reader to put their own life into perspective. Martel does not examine the meaning of life, human nature, and faith in his own words; but he lets the reader examine the pages on their own. This quality on its own is timeless. For me, this book could definitely be canonized. Right now it is a very popular book but I think classics take more than a few years and a movie deal to really become literary canons. The greatest artists weren’t alive when they became so, if that makes sense.
Spurlin 5
Life of Pi shall indeed claim its rightful place in the literary canon. Yann Martel composed a masterful work which “has enriched the human mind increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step.” This novel changed my life in many ways as it has for others too. Ambiguous topics were reached and for readers everywhere to entertain. Believing one religion today is a challenge for some let alone three all at once. One of the messages is we can all coexist. The message speaks throughout the novel, emphasising his beliefs. This story is not meant for only North Americans but potentially the entire world. Three of the most popular religions on earth were chosen for a reason: grasping the audience’s attention and targeting the majority of people around the world. Furthermore, believing everybody worships the same god by different practices and aliases “revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered.” I have never heard of a person committing to multiple religions simultaneously so it makes one rethink and reflect on what we see and know physically versus the intangible things we believe exist.
This consummate literature certainly evokes new thoughts and ideas to readers. The plot puzzles me; I cannot decide if the animals of the original story allow me to think receptively of if the second story beckons just rational people to believe. Either way it contributes to Martel’s writing style: he connects with everybody. While at sea readers try to imagine having endless, unstructured hours of with no goals or intentions is an outlet for Pi to truly explore life inside and out, as well as the readers’ own lives. Thoughts are expressed wonderfully “in [Martel’s] own peculiar style”. While I praise Martel’s novel It may be too new to determine whether the book is a classic currently, but there is no doubt in my mind it will be in time. Books that speak to many and linger in our minds will prevail for decades to come.
Berberich 7
When I think of the word 'Classic' I think of "Romeo and Juliet" and "To Kill a Mockingbird,". Not "Life of Pi,". This topic, of canonization, is very debatable with whom you discuss this book with. For me, I would say right now the "Life of Pi" is not a canon type of book. However, in a couple hundred years it may be. I am sure when Shakespeare wrote his stories he never dreamed of them being canonized.
I would say Martel has definitely enriched the human mind. In "Life of Pi" he uses very wordy and colorful words to describe many events that occur. Chapter 41, Pi talks about his second day and the lack of strength he has while trying to search for food under the tarpaulin. "I felt I was climbing the side of a volcano and I was about to look over the rim into a boiling cauldron of orange lava."
After reading "Life of Pi" Martel has increased the treasure we store in our hearts. We people sometimes forget there is more to ourselves than just money and our common daily lives. We have family, friends, and people who love us. After reading the part where Pi looses his family to the sinking of the 'Tsimtsum' allowed me to realize that Martel created a character just like us teenagers. He took advantage of the idea he had parents and they would always care for him. Just like we all take advantage of our parents. Martel has increased the treasure bestowed within "Life of Pi".
Finally, Martel has caused "Life of Pi" to advance a step by allowing it to become a motion picture. I, for one, had no idea this book existed before the movie came out. I watched it and thoroughly liked it and wanted to read the book.--I am glad I did--
To answer the question should "Life of Pi" be canonized I say yes. Martel has probably put forth more effort into this book than what any other canonized author has. This book is in the hands of future generations to decide if they think this book should be canonized. In years to come, time will tell.
Peltier 1
The Great Gatsby, To Kill a Mockingbird, and A Tale of Two Cities all great classic novels rising to the task of fulfilling the definition of a classic novel. Will Life of Pi follow these books into the classic collection of books in history?
No author sets out to write a book hoping it will soon become a classic but write what they see needed in society. Life of Pi in my opinion sits on a fine line to being a classic. Life of Pi has certainly enriched the human mind on the human ability to adapt to conditions far beyond the humans capacity to understand, also is “broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself”. Beauty is presented not it the usual sense but in the elegant flow between harsh and gruesome scenes to heart wrenching revelations. All of the events taking place in Life of Pi could happen in real life due to the situations and hardships Pi is faced with while on the lifeboat. Martel certainly uses sensible placement and refined qualities in the formation and creation of this book; not placing overly gruesome scenes in the book but placing the scenes that will in turn leave a lasting impact on the reader and forms a deeper connection emotionally with Pi to the reader. Martel “who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time”, created Pi’s story with a new and vibrant style.
Pi’s story is remarkable but I do not feel it has the same impact as other classics. I love the story, the adventure, and the survival endured by Pi, though it does not have the same impact on society as other classics have. Other classics I have read show how society in a state that shocks the conscience and calls to question the actions or events, which plague society. Life of Pi may not address the problems in society but it does show the ability for many different religions to be as one and no mater the hardship someone faces they may always look to God.
In my opinion Life of Pi is not a book that will be canonized as a classic. Yann Martel is an author who will amaze readers with imagery and style in his books. While Life of Pi may not be a classic it stands among the classics as a book which shall be remembered and cherished by readers.
Kramer 2
Unlike the majority of my fellow classmates I am not completely sold on the idea of “Life of Pi.” Undoubtedly, Martel has hand crafted a written novel; however, reflecting back I have a hard time admitting that I was truly enriched as a reader and challenged. Reflecting on other classics I have read I was awestruck, the literature literally changed my way of thinking. I believe previously canonized books and/or books that are worthy of being canonized ought to be a book the world as a whole can learn from, some a book that really makes a difference--not just within its genre but in society. Examples that come to mind would be “The Great Gatsby,” “A Tale of Two Cities,” and “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Such books are recognizable to humans of all ages, across many cultures and a multitude of religions.
Throughout reading “Life of Pi” I was reminded of the book of Job derived from the Bible. A man loses everything in his life, his body fails him almost as Pi’s “...my body began to deteriorate. My feet and ankles started to swell and I was finding it very tiring to stand” (Page 214). Nevertheless, Pi and Job are unwavering in their faith. Religiously I do not see how “Life of Pi” has any new information to present. The story does stress the importance of remaining faithful to God--but does this really bring anything new to the table? Hardly.
Keep in mind I am not trying to cast libel upon Martel, he created a wonderful novel. However, the majority of people know “Life of Pi” by its motion picture, not its carefully crafted novel. Martel’s novel has been read by many but seen by many more. I agree the novel is refined as well as sensible, being exactly 100 chapters with carefully selected words; however, it does not seem very unique in that respect. As an entire entity, I enjoyed the novel. I cannot deny that I would not rank the novel as near the top of my favorite novel list, nor favorite classics list. “Life of Pi” may be contemporary now and only time will tell if it will be able withstand the turn of ages.
All-in-all Martel crafted a luxurious novel. A classic? A subject that will be highly debatable for years.
Rykhus 1
I do not believe that Martel wrote a fantastic novel, which truly challenges the realms of what we deem possible. He does this through the use of psychological suppression. The way that he does this is genius by writing one story to talk about another. He wrote about animals to describe the hell that Pi went through. By writing about the animals he could better describe the trip he went through. This being said I do not believe that this novel should be canonized. It can be a very popular novel of our time, but it will not last through time such as classics like Lord of the Flies or One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. The book does not change humanity and I did not find any parts of it super clear to follow as a novel worthy of study.
The ending was fantastic and caused me to have a lot of thought on which version is correct but I do not believe that this will be a novel that will be studied in fifty years however much I did enjoy it. Alternate endings and perceived realities are not a new concept. We have been a delusional race for centuries believing mythology to explain things we did not care to understand. Martel also borrowed a plot structure similar to that of Max and Cats to convey the message he was trying to get across. By the definition provided I do not believe that this will be a canonized piece of literature. Even though it meets some of the requirements I do not believe it has the true challenging impact on humanity that it would take for it to be canonized. Canonized books change the world and I do not believe that this book did that, it didn't change the world.
Life of Pi : a novel provoking contemplation of unconventional inspiration, intriguing style, capsized perceptions, necessary gore, and debatable moralities. What I find most remarkable is the careful manner in which Martel convinces readers to sympathize with Pi. Sympathizing with a character who is forced into cannibalistic behavior is not normal or easy, but Yann Martel introduces the controversial detail with all possible grace; Pi Patel is immediately a likable character, and his personality and optimism give him a friendly consistency that persists in times of darkness.
The novel certainly deserves being described as “sane and beautiful in itself.” Throughout the most unimaginable, threatening circumstances, the narration remains consistently poised. Martel describes horrors without allowing the readers to hold their preconceived notions too highly. Yann Martel has also “caused it [the human mind] to advance a step” by employing defamiliarization, forcing the audience to consider new possibilities in various areas; anything from religion to violence can be viewed abstractly through this book.
My opinion of Life of Pi does not stem from the level of comfort I possessed while reading the book. For much of the book I was uncomfortable reading details of a gruesome plot. I did not enjoy the bloody imagery and grotesque depictions of what Pi was enduring. Even so, I can wholly respect and appreciate a book despite my personal wariness. The gore was absolutely necessary for the impact of the book. Martel intended to pull readers into a state of uncomfortableness so that they would begin to skim the surface of realizing how Pi feels. This book forced me to stare into a frightening world, but that world is also one filled with amazement, beauty, and mystery. The messages are powerful and the ending is amazing.
I believe Life of Pi deserves to be recognized as a classic, as it not only tells a fascinating story, but provides thought-provoking points throughout. Questions without blatant answers live in every chapter, and as a reader, I enjoy possessing the accountability for thinking about more than stated words. The novel cannot be quickly categorized with the most acclaimed works in literary history, but as a notable text, it has an eternal life during which it can be examined and analyzed. Once the book’s impact proves to transcend time, it may be considered one of “the greats” in literature.
What really makes a classic? The fact that people reading it years later still like it? If that's the case, wouldn't most, if not all books be considered classics? Books aren't popular only a couple years after their release. Based on that, yes, Life of Pi is a classic. Or at least it will be. But I bet that answer isn't at all satisfactory, so I'll stick to the given and available definition.
"an author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step...." First off: who judges whether or not it has enriched/increased any of this? A committee? An English class? The reader? Based on that alone, any book can be canonized so long as some people decide it did the preceding for them (assuming that canon only exists if the individual reader decides it exists). This is completely an opinion and dependent on whether the reader agrees with it or not.
"...who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered...." Also an opinion. Similarly, when someone discovers a moral, by definition, that means that it was previously unbeknownst to them. Hence why, if there is a moral and if you've discovered it before, this definition is nullified, thus making it canonized, but for you, not anyone who hasn't discovered the moral, thus making the definition of canon completely ambiguous.
"...who has expressed his thought, observation, or invention, in no matter what form, only provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself...." *cough* *cough* opinion *cough* *cough* dependent on reader *cough* *cough* exact same as before *cough* *cough*
"...who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time." Is Martel's style really all that peculiar? Wasn't there another book that was basically the exact same thing. Oh wait, he didn't pull anything from that book at all. That's what he said. Well, I am the Sovereign King of Mars. Like Martel and that other book, I can say whatever I want, but he/me saying it doesn't make it any more or less true. And those aren't the only castaway/stranded/man-vs-environment books/movies/TV shows/etc.. Plenty of other examples of this exist.
Is this book canon? Is it necessary to restate the original question and explicitly answer it? Is a triple hypophora really needed? No. No it's not.
Berg 2
Thinking about Life of Pi, I believe that the author, Yann Martel, has written a novel that could be capable of becoming a classic. According to the given definition, Martel has certainly “enriched the human mind” with the ideas he expertly placed within this novel. Most individuals have never thought of being a part of more than one religion, let alone three like Martel’s main character, Pi. Although Pi is told numerous times that it is simply impossible to follow all three at the same time, he continues and seemingly proves everyone wrong. He cannot choose one religion over another; he is an active Christian, Muslim, and Hindu. This is all a part of Martel’s “own peculiar style” that he is sharing with the rest of the world with the hope of spreading his thoughts provoking others to think more like him.
On the other hand, the idea of having multiple faiths to believe in at once is not “easily contemporary with all time”. This statement at the end of the given definition is explaining that a classic must be able to be associated with every time throughout the past, present, and future. However, it is extremely unusual to follow three religions without harsh ridicule, both in the past and in the current age. It might be considered a futuristic idea, with the thought that it may spread because of Martel’s novel, Life of Pi. I also feel that he has not “increased its [the human mind] treasure”, only reflected upon treasures already found inside. For example, faith is reintroduced through this novel, but faith is not new to society, it has been around for centuries. Also, shipwrecks have happened, and unfortunately will continue to happen (except most of the time there is not a tiger aboard the lifeboat).
It almost seems that Alexander Pope knew Yann Martel while describing in this quote what characteristics an author must possess to create a classic novel. Life of Pi is unquestionably a classic novel, for I have no doubt that its popularity will remain strong as the years pass. Being “new and old, easily contemporary with all time,” this story is applicable in all time periods, as being a stranded castaway is a possibility that was feasible thousands of years ago, today, and thousands of years in the future from now. Although being a castaway accompanied by a tiger is highly unlikely and inconceivable, Martel conveyed it in a style so that the audience not only believes that Richard Parker was along for the journey with Pi, but we also feel the fear that Pi experiences by bunking with a terrifying bengal tiger on an unescapable life boat. Martel’s style and concepts are so unique, yet relatively simple. Many authors tie novels to religion to give the book a deeper meaning, but Martel’s book is the first one I have read that not only references multiple religions, but also has one character practice three religions at one time. Bringing a new meaning to polytheism, the concept of “revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered” is definitely revealed. Our minds are broadened by Martel’s immense imagination, for it is difficult for one to merely dream of a boy, a zebra, an orangutan, a hyena, and a tiger on one small life boat that stumbles upon a cannibalistic island. Yet, Martel is able to gather this fantasy and write it into an intricate novel that leaves the reader wondering what is fact and what is fiction—undoubtably “spoken to all in his own particular style.” Martel is unequivocally original, and he leaves us with a story that impacts lives permanently. Although I cannot prove that the novel is “sane and beautiful in itself,” I am not sure that I would want it to be sane and beautiful. Sometimes, the most disturbing things impact us more than the beautiful, and the most insane people leave us with more knowledge than the sane.
Polasky 5
When debate rises regarding Yann Martel’s Life of Pi, no one disagrees with how breathtaking and spiritually moving the novel is. Rather, the discussion rests on if it can yet be considered a “classic” novel. No doubt resides within the fact of Martel fabricating a “moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered.” Through the personality and mind-set of Pi, Martel has shown the world how accepting they should be, especially in the area of religion. Martel practically screams within the pages to stop persecuting our neighbor’s religions. At the end of the day, one huge similarity holds true to all religions: they all believe in a God. Once everyone stops attempting superiority and begin to disagree peacefully, the unity of of our earth will strengthen, just like Pi’s strength in religion. The author also impeccably crafted a story that holds to be “broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself.” Pi’s adventure epitomizes this through the vast ocean blue and in his insane but sensible mind. His outlandish story seems so fantastic that it can be a struggle to believe, yet it resounds such a logical and enchanting simplicity that makes believing in it inevitable. Each line of the definition matched the soul of Life of Pi…until I reached the last one and read “easily contemporary with all time.” While I truly desired to deem this tale a “canonized classic,” I simply could not because of this last phrase. While I believe these values stand true in the past and within the present, the future can sadly not be unpredictable. Martel has unquestionably written a classic. However, it will take time and faith in this future world to rightly place this novel into a literary canon.
Personally, I think Life of Pi should be canonized. I believe Yann Martel has “enriched the human mind” and “caused it to advance a step” because Pi essentially embraces all religions. Going back through history, religious intolerance has caused many bloody, brutal conflicts. The most prevalent example is the Crusades, fought between Christians and Muslims to regain the Holy Land. Pi’s willingness to accept all religions as they are without dividing them by strict lines is a good lesson that I wish everyone would learn. I think this loosely falls into at least the “moral truth” (if not the unequivocal category as well) and “eternal passion in the heart” category as well, but I’m not quite sure of my understanding of the definition. I would also say that Life of Pi fits with “who has expressed his thought...provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself.” Religious tolerance is a very broad, great, and sensible concept. The last part of the definition, “an author who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style...new and old, easily contemporary with all time”, is also true of Life of Pi. Writing a novel from the point of view of the main character isn’t a new phenomenon, and but I have yet to see another “author” interject himself into the story. In this sense, Yann Martel’s style is both old and new at the same time, which fits with one part of the definition. The definition of “neologism” is “a newly coined word or expression”; I don’t believe he’s added any of these, and if he has, I haven’t been able to notice. Based on the amount of points Life of Pi and the definition have in common, I think the novel is well on its way to becoming a “canonized classic”.
Anderson 5
Yann Martel has composed a classic that will always be canonized through the eyes of his readers. Martel is perfectly explained as “an author who has enriched the human mind…” He is able to take us, the readers, on a wild adventure that mixes with all our emotions. One chapter you could be scared to know what’s going to happen, and then the next chapter be laughing because of how Pi is acting. Martel did this incredible thing when he wrote his novel; he thought it all the way through and “increased a treasure, and caused it to advance a step…” There are not too many authors that will spend the time writing exactly 100 chapters, put meaning behind every word, and still be able to compose such a thrilling book. Martel wrote “Life of Pi” using his own peculiar style. This style isn’t something normal to people, its different and interesting. He was able to express his thought and style with every chapter, sentence, and word. He mostly did this by telling how Pi is a part of three totally different religions. He wanted to share that we all come from the same God, we just may call him a different name or praise him in a different way than others, and that’s alright. Martel also had a color that symbolized each religion and used these colors many times throughout the book. The colors green, blue, and orange are seen describing simple things such as the whistle Pi uses to train Richard Parker. It’s the details that Martel individual placed in this novel that make it like nothing else ever written. There has never been anything like “Life of Pi” before and there will never be again because it is so unique to society. The words “broad and great” describe Yann Martel’s “Life of Pi” perfectly.
Lusk 5
To Kill a Mocking Bird, The Great Gatsby, Pride and Prejudice, and The Catcher and the Rye are titles of great novels that come to my mind when I hear the word classic. The authors of theses novels, and the novels themselves were canonized by admiration. These authors have “enriched the human mind…discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion.” They all fit many aspects of the definition of a classic. They express a thought, observation, or invention that sends some type of message for the readers to pick up on. As it takes many years for classics to prosper and become known, I have no doubt that there are many more to come in the future. Yann Martel’s novel Life of Pi is debatable when it comes to the topic of becoming a classic. There is no doubt that it is “sane and beautiful in itself” and that Martel has spoken “in his own peculiar style.” The way the book was designed was set up in a way to be studied and to engage the reader with what was happening. I do believe that Martel has enriched the human mind by his story of the young boy lost at sea who lives through this horrendous yet marvelous journey. By the time Pi has even made it to his teenage years he had already became very faithful to his religion, all three of them. Pi follows Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam. He believes that they all worship the same God, so why not celebrate through all three religions? Martel is trying to point out to his audience that even if we are of different religions and cultures that it should not make a difference, because when you look at if from afar you see that we all come from God and celebrate Him. There is no doubt that Life of Pi is a extraordinary novel. I do not think that Martel and his novel have been canonized yet, but I do believe that in the future they will reach the level of admiration to become known as a classic.
Sternburg 7
While Life of Pi is a good book I find it difficult to say that it’s a future classic. If it were up to me I would say that Life of Pi is not a classic. In order for a book to be canonized it has to be the best of the best. The book can’t simply be good or even great; it has to be the ultimate best. Life of Pi has some great aspects, but ultimately it doesn't have enough to be considered a classic. As the book is a creative, purposeful work of art I would say is “enriched the human mind.” Anytime anyone reads a book they enrich their mind and so I am comfortable in saying that Life of Pi has accomplished this. I can also say for certain that Martel has created a book with its “own personal style,” and “a style new without neologism.” This book stands out to me most prominently because of its unique style. I am not talking about its plot, its themes, or its characters but the way Martel uses his words, literary devices and chapters to achieve an effect. Something to note, however, is that I don’t really read many books like Life of Pi so maybe I am not the best judge on its uniqueness. Life of Pi has a lot going for it but, I feel, it needs more in order to be called a classic. The part the book that is missing for me is also the part of a book that is the hardest to attain. What a true classic does is capture pure beauty, magnify it, and launch it back directly into the reader’s heart. How a book does this, I don’t know. What I do know is how it feels, and I did not feel it while reading Life of Pi. One final note about literary canons is that they are just someone else’s opinion. I feel that the only canon that actually matters is one’s own personal canon.
Gingles 7
I believe that Yann Martel’s novel should definitely be considered a canon. This book has caused me to understand more about Hinduism and Islam. I never imagined anyone being three religions at the same time. One must also give Martel credit for the extensive research that went into this book. He expanded my knowledge of the animal kingdom, especially animal psychology. I find it interesting how he thought these different animals would interact. I think that if these creatures were to be together, that the encounter would be quite similar to Martel’s depiction. This story is a great example of metafiction. In other words, it is a story about a story. This book is focused on storytelling. Storytelling has been a part of human society since some of the first human beings. Every generations have new stories to tell. In fact, some stories last forever. I think that Martel’s story will last through quite a few generations if not forever. Maybe some day The Life of Pi will become legend. Martel’s peculiar writing style can be found on every page in this novel. Martel’s style is in his varied chapter lengths and the way he inserts his thoughts into the book by making some of the chapter’s from the point of view of the person receiving the story. Martel’s book meets every qualification of a canon and should be classified as such. I think that it is definitely on its way to reaching this classification, as more and more students are beginning to study it. These students would not spend time to analyze this novel if it were not enriching to the mind.
McGee 5
I have really enjoyed reading this novel without a doubt. I do find this story to be extraordinarily entertaining. I do not believe that it could be considered a classic. Sure it meets some of the requirements to be considered a classic, but it certainly does not meet all or a majority. Don’t get me wrong I do agree that this book should continue to be studied, but mainly to see the wonderful way in which it is written. I do agree with the statement, “…only provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself”. I do believe it is beautifully written with outstanding imagery and other literary utensils of beauty. Also I would agree with the fact that Yann Martel is, “an author who has enriched the human mind”, in the sense of all religions working together somehow, and it actually making some sort of sense. However, I do not agree that he is an author “who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered.” Personally I do not believe he found this new truth that has never been found before. He does expound the interest for God for many people probably, but not in a sense that has never been heard of. Again I love this novel and will suggest it to many people, I have already suggested it to my sister. I will continue to respect Yann Martel and his talent to create such a vivid story I felt as if I was walking along with Pi through his extensive journey. So I do love this book, but my great liking of the book does not mean it is a classic and I do not believe it should be considered one or become canonized.
Yann Martel’s Life of Pi fits the definition of a canonized classic. Life of Pi makes the reader think about many topics, religion specifically. Pi is Hindu, Christian, and Islam. This is very odd. It is unheard of to be more than one religion let alone three. The idea that Pi can be all three religion is one of the aspects of the novel that makes the reader think and therefore can be thought of as a novel.
Life of Pi speaks to many people. It speaks to many people because it encompasses three of the most popular religions in the world, Hindu, Christian, and Islam. This allows many people throughout the world to relate to the book and therefore want to read it over and over.
Alex Oddy 2
Following the definition given, I would say that Martel has indeed succeed in creating a piece of work worthy of "canonizing". In order to support this claim, I will break down a few parts of the definition a bit further. While most of the definition is really opinion and could be viewed differently by each reader individually, I'll answer it from my perspective of a reader and how the book has influenced me. "an author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step". I can honestly say that the book definitely had this effect on me, and probably many of the readers that experienced this book. The book makes people question their beliefs and challenges them to open up their mind to new ideas. Any piece of work that has an impact like this on others without a doubt enriches the human mind, increases it's "treasure" (which I am understanding to be knowledge, morals, and new ways of thinking), and causes for the person to advance a step forward mentally. Next, the definition states, "who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered". This part of the definition gets a bit tricky and honestly I discard it completely. First off, truth is a completely abstract and very questionable concept. Also, can anyone be as daft to think that everything in their heart is already "known and discovered"? In the world we live in today, little is known about literally anything and there is always much to be discovered. Next in the definition is, "who has expressed his thought, observation, or invention, in no matter what form, only provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself". Life of Pi without a doubt does just this. Yann expresses his general thoughts on religion throughout the book through the perspective of Pi. In his eyes, religion doesn't matter as long as you believe in a god one way or another. Lastly the definitions states, "who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.”. Honestly, being as ambiguous as whoever has written this definition was, this could mean anything. Literally someone could write the first 5 things that came to their mind on a piece of paper and somehow argue that their new 5 word novel fits this part of the definition.
Yann Martel’s Life of Pi would definitely be considered a classic. It fits all of the criteria that was given to define what a “classic” is. Most people from around the world may not see Life of Pi as a classic yet, because it is fairly recent, and classics are thought to be older books that are still studied today. Life of Pi will definitely be in classrooms for years to come now, because of the fact that it is so different from books we are used to. It leaves us with an ending that makes us reflect upon the novel. Martel has an original style that is memorable and intriguing. The way he put all 100 chapters into Life of Pi and made them all fit and complete the story is nothing short of outstanding. Varying chapter lengths reminded me of Ken Kesey’s One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, for he also experimented with chapters. Martel’s expansive knowledge on zoology and religions made this novel truly exquisite. All of it, of course, could not have been done without a lot of hours of intense research, something Martel is quite fond of. Everything is well thought out, and overall, knowledgable. These facts are what makes Life of Pi a true classic. It stands out among all other books, forces the readers to think about the larger, more important things in life, and changes their perspective on the world itself, all of which, are among the definition of a classic. In today’s world, there are definitely less classics that are recent, mainly because of the fact that classics are named when the book has been around for a long time, which is something Life of Pi has yet to fulfill. Regardless of if that day arrives or not, I will still view Life of Pi as a classic.
McIlravy 2
It is most certainly not questionable whether Life of Pi is a classic or not. It is obvious that Martel "enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step," He most definitely “expressed his thought, observation, or invention” throughout the entire novel of Life of Pi. Martel draws the reader in with an adventure, but also provokes the reader to question his writing. The great amount of symbolism in this novel does exactly what Martel says a novel and author should do: “enrich the human mind, increase its treasure, and cause it to advance a step.” Being able to extract the symbols and discover the themes and meanings of the novel helps students advance knowledge. I have never before read a book that has a character that practices three different religions, and also closely bonds with an atheist. Martel’s style is truly unique and separate from any other novel I’ve read. He increases readers’ levels of thought by making them consider what may be realistic or not, and possible and impossible. The way Martel wrote Life of Pi almost makes readers feel as if they are suffering in the lifeboat with Pi. The reader is able to understand and feel Pi’s emotions and struggles. Martel makes the readers advance a step by putting them in Pi’s shoes. Not just anyone could survive in the lifeboat with a tiger, and also form a bond. Thinking back to the novel, it truly is beautiful in the way Martel portrayed each character. In every day life, it seems as though Pi and Richard Parker could not help each other survive, but Martel made it possible in this novel. He made the readers believe something seeming so impossible could turn into a miraculous story about survival and a growing bond between a man and a tiger.
Baum 5
When it comes to Yann Martel there are no doubts in my mind that he is an author with exceptional skill. Life of Pi evokes his passion for writing. Studying his work, it is clear to me Martel intends for this book to be a literary masterpiece studied by many for years exceeding his own. Definitively, he is “an author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step...” Life of Pi is a heavily researched novel. One does not just happen to completely comprehend three separate and diverse religions without putting in immense amounts of effort. Religion is a major theme that is intertwined throughout, along with zoology. Two topics you would not expect to be placed together, yet are. Martel pulls you in with his descriptive language and imagery as if you are the one fighting for survival. “Who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth...” His unique style makes you question your own morals and beliefs… is murder wrong if it comes down to your own survival? Does killing truly become easier or habitual once you have committed this act once already? Questions like these compel you to read more and further your journey through the engaging tides of the Pacific Ocean. “Sane and beautiful in itself…” Martel’s work has become my favorite, I already recommend the novel to friends and family. “Who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.” To say “contemporary with all time” would be misleading at this point. It is far too early to say “contemporary with all time.” Although, I have no doubt in my mind that it will become a classic soon enough.
I personally don't believe that Martel has created a "canonized" novel based on the above definition. His book, lucidly written as it might be, hasn't truly enriched my mind and caused it to advance a step, as the definition says above. I'm open to attempts of dissuasion but right now I don't believe it is worthy of being canonized.
First of all, I'll begin with why I feel this novel didn't enrich my mind or increase its treasure. In order for a mind to be enriched, it must learn something new or at the very least it must be opened to a new perspective of seeing life. This could be done by introducing a new moral principle or something of the like that would make the reader ponder their previous perspective on the issue. But no, Life of Pi is about story telling and whether or not how gullible you as a reader are. It's a great book; I've recommended it to a few people already. But it's not quite worthy of being "canonized."
Next, I want to touch on discovering a moral truth. Life of Pi did nothing of this sort. He told of how living on a lifeboat with a tiger is a tricky and delicate situation in which he could be devoured alive at any second, but since he "tamed" RP, all went well. Highly unlikely story. And that's the other thing. The ending leaves you befuddled and frustrated. I don't want to be asked what I believe, I want to be told the truth! If a schizophrenic Native American can explain his life events, not only in chronological order, but also quite intelligibly, then why can't an Indian in this book do the same?
Furthermore, Pi struggles with the concepts of insanity and fear, but he doesn't speak of anything he learned from these two ideas. If he had, and possibly spoke of his opinion or a moral principle he believed in, then this would've incited more of a reaction from me, and probably other readers.
This book was easily an entertaining read, and I enjoyed it for that fact. Which is why it was made into a movie. At first, I thought without a doubt this book should be canonized. But the novel does not quite compare to the prerequisites that are stated in the above definition of being canonized. It made a great film, I'll give it that.
Also, this book was clearly written with Martel's peculiar style behind it, with his unique authorial intrusions, and other style incorporations.
Hall 2
Yann Martel’s Life of Pi is undeniably a classic. As an author he is able to evoke eternal passion through his very unique style of writing. He allows you to make emotional relations with the characters. Yann can make us see what we cannot imagine; therefore broadening our views. This book, containing precisely 100 chapters, is made with thought provoking purpose. The placement of each chapter is defined and reveals the book in the prefect manner. He enriches the mind by making the reader think past normal beliefs. For example he creates an exceptional main character, Pi, who practices three religions each with great passion. This causes great advancements within our minds. Can it be that it truly is one God as Pi proclaims just seen from multiple standpoints? Martel can challenge us to see past the writing and put meaning to this book. Weather new or old, people will continually be able to connect to this book. Life of Pi deserves the fame and recognition of a classic because of it’s creative details. If I were to read this book again I would indubitably find numerous symbols I have not found this first time. It has a wonderful beauty about itself in which it displays a story intangible to our minds. Overall, I believe this book easily meets the criteria for being considered a classic. Its relevant message will not die as it continues to grow throughout our schools, our lives, and everywhere. A novel with such beautiful lessons and creative writing will no doubt be contemporary with all time.
Williams pd. 2
Yan Martel composed a classic, Life of Pi. The novel reaches the expectations and aspects of a classic and therefore should be canonized as such. Yan Martel “has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step” in the ideology of humanity and the aspect of human perception and reality. Martel does not force the reader to expand their minds but subconsciously creates a character that lacks prejudice that many humans live by today without even knowing it. He breaks down the walls of religion by creating a character that believes in Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam simultaneously. In a war struck world today, one could not imagine having faith in all three. Entire populations have been wiped off the face of the earth due to religious differences. Yet, Martel “has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth” and “revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered”. Many people live by their religion or their ideas, but Martel has challenged the readers to live only by faith, not a label of a religion, and become understanding of our own kind. Martel also allows the reader to make their own decisions and take their own perception of the story to fit what they may need as food for their own emotions. He “has expressed his thought, observation, or invention, in no matter what form, only provided it be broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself” by allowing the reader to choose which story is the truth: animals or humans. Pi argues with the Japanese men that his original story with Richard Parker is not completely impossible. This allows the readers to feel less judged by the author for feeling ridiculous for wanting to believe the story with animals instead of humans. Life of Pi proves that Yan Martel is not only entertaining his readers for 319 pages, but giving them the opportunity to learn more about their fellow human and themselves.
Garrow, 1
Enriching the mind can be an incredible task but do authors expect their book to be a classic, or do they write just to voice an opinion? I believe classics are written without any notion of knowing that the book the author is writing will be a future classic. If authors focused solely on making their book on a classic they would have taken out any great detail by their own mind. Yann Martel wrote this book only what he felt in his gut he did not base it on the requirements of a classic and that is what makes this book so beautiful. Martel did not have to work hard to enrich our mind; his extreme detail has enriched my mind and has left me wishing I could go on a trip like Pi’s, just so I could see the island of Meerkats. Martel expressed his thought through Pi voicing his opinion and showing the reader that the world only believes what they have already heard and that is what is wrong with the world, we do not look outside the box at all. Many people can argue that it does not appeal to the senses of the world, and does not match up to Romeo and Juliet or other great novels and plays. So why is this book studied widely? Since this book is being studied so widely, should it not be called a novel?
“Canonized” or not, this book has met all of the requirements for myself and it may not for others but undoubtedly this book enriches the mind of any reader, I do not care what the reader says. His distinct descriptive writing has changed the way I will read any other book and it will be hard to live up to a book like this.
I believe that Martel has definitely and definitively discovered a new state of mind in Life of PI; just for this, his novel should be canonized. The surprising, gruesome nature of the book shows that the author does not like to hold back which, in return, allows for an open mind at a staggering level to touch on topics most authors of the past have just happened to not discover. Martel has truly “discovered some moral and not equivocal truth, or revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered.” This level of thinking, in my opinion, is far ahead of its time as much of what the book is in richer content has had to be watered down for the majority of people who have not yet discovered this book. I am unsure as to whether this novel has become standard in classrooms across the world, but it is definitely a book worthy of that status which implies its canonization. Bringing touchy subjects such as multiple religions into one novel and putting it into a diverse classroom setting by today’s standards is a feat worthy of a classic and further proves the point that the ideas in this book are fresh and new. Castaway stories have been told for many years, which Martel makes references to in his own, which should make this novel lose its credibility as a canon; instead, Martels writing style has allowed us to delve into the mind of a multi-religious, optimistic Indian youth all while playing in the key factors of a survivor novel. This new take on an old genre makes this classic one of a kind, and it will remain relevant as the book takes place in the late 70’s yet still seems timeless. Life of Pi is the perfect example of “new without neologism” and “contemporary with all time”.
I was extremely nervous to begin reading “Life of Pi”, mostly because (and I may or may not have mentioned this in a previous blog task) this scholarly, astute teacher of my lauded praises for the novel. I’ve heard numerous aspects of positive feedback on the book, and now having finished it myself, can agree with those statements. Martel’s narrative is the epitome of “sane and beautiful in itself”; he writes with such perceptiveness, with a tremendous propensity for emotions and undertones.
I, and by looking through a few of my classmates’ posts, along with some of my peers, feel that there can be no standard. How can we say that a select group of novels will cause a catharsis? I could be missing the purpose and methodology of the literary canon; perhaps the novels more prevalent feature is to educate. Including “…enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step” in the definition leads me to believe otherwise. Martel’s novel is innovative, to say the least, and the laborious revisions both obvious and covert. People don’t always remember the book that was written with the grandest imagery, confounding metaphors, or brilliant symbols. They cherish the novels that churned them up on the inside, truly made them feel. The worst possible life is a monotonous one, one that is an unwavering straight path along the middle ground. If each human life is unique and carries its own idiosyncrasies to unlocking emotion, how is it possible to create a category of the “best books”?
I would like more time to process “Life of Pi”. To make excuses, it’s been busy for me recently, and I haven’t treated Martel’s novel with the respect any good book deserves. Some sentences, phrases, or general ideas from “Life of Pi” hit me hard—really resonated. Though typically I despise the traditional “survival story”, I feel that this one is different: a survival of a unique type.
I believe Yann Martel would be considered to have written a classic novel with "Life of Pi", I would not however consider "Beatrice and Virgil" a classic novel. I do believe that Martel only has written one classic novel. The reason I believe its a classic is because it enriches the human experience. It's easier to believe in the world and be optimistic about it, when you also believe that world capable of containing a boy and a tiger co-existing on a lifeboat for 7 months and surviving. I appreciate the books subtleties, how he was afraid to run out of paper, to document his days in the lifeboat, and instead he ran out of ink. Like how he chose to embrace three religions, not just one. I find myself reading contradictory interpretations and agreeing with both sides. That's the beauty of symbolism: as long as you back up your cause, it's plausible. In reality, this book is an examination of faith in all its forms. That's why Life of Pi is so great and why I believe it should be a classic: it makes you think very hard about life and how you want to live it. It is a great literary feat and I believe should be appreciated as such. It should be considered a classic in the same way Vladimir Nabokov's Lolita should be- if enough people consider it a great catalyst in their life and it changes the way they think, then it is.
MArais 1
Has Martel composed a classic or enriched our human minds? It shouldn’t matter whether “Life of Pi” isn’t a classic yet. But eventually I think it will be. I truly believe that he has “captivated our minds, increased its treasures, and caused it to advance a step”. Martel demands each reader to rethink what they already know about life and specifically about themselves. Most people either have one religion where they believe they are right and every other religion is wrong or they do not believe in anything. They usually don’t have more than one and if they do it’s usually two at most. Yet in Life of Pi, Martel makes the reader doubting themselves and questions their own thoughts about religion. But as we continue reading throughout the book there are all types of symbols to each type of religion Pi has adopted. The Christianity color is blue and Pi is surrounded by water. The Islam is green and the island is luscious and covered with green vegetation. While Hinduism plays a vital role in this book. Hinduism is based on the concept of reincarnation, in which all living beings, from plants below to gods above, are caught in a cosmic cycle of becoming and perishing. Life is determined by the laws of karma, according to which rebirth is dependent on moral behavior in a previous phase of existence. In this view, life on earth is regarded as transient and a burden. Just like Pi is on the orange life boat with a tiger. The goal of existence is liberation from the cycle of rebirth and death and entrance into the indescribable state. Just like all the animals or people that has died threw out the book. The story of this young boys struggle for life, assuredly everyone has a struggle in life not necessarily to these extreme measures. Religion will always be around it will never go out of existence, since religion is a major part of this book it will always relate to the past, future, and present. Therefore, I believe tjis novel should be considered a classic that must be canonized.
Tellinghuisen 5
There is no doubt in my mind the AWEsomeness of Life of Pi. I have never read something as mind-numbingly thought provoking, and inspiring as this story is. It most definitely has the potential of an epic classic, but like Kaija said, it is hard to have a standard. There are many ways one can be defined as a classic based on opinion bases alone. However, given that definition, Life of Pi is most certainly a classic, and I couldn’t be happier about it.
“Who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style?” Martel has undoubtedly done this. He has a style that seems atypical, yet the words on the pages keep drawing you in. I finished this book way before the allotted time, and it was solely because I wanted to keep on reading. I haven’t felt that for a book in years. The plotline is a perfect example of this, the last pages of the book serve mainly to completely contradict the main story, all to make you think.
“An author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step; who has discovered some moral and not equivocal truth” I felt like I had to combine all of these statements into one observation about Martel and his writing. The biggest thing that struck me about the book was essentially the joining of three religions. Three religions that seem to conflict with each other on almost everything. Just the idea of this itself is controversial. I for one was very skeptical of this, and I found myself prejudging the whole book; I couldn’t have been more wrong about it. Martel takes the idea of faith, something so difficult to truly understand, something almost invisible, and makes it tangible. That is a very hard thing to do because to fully understand faith, you ironically have to have a lot of faith.
Dykstra 5
The question of whether or not Martel has composed a "classic" work of literature can be argued both ways. I believe his book fits some of the definition of a "classic" that has been provided, but not all of it. For example, I think Martel has succeeded in creating a work that is "easily contemporary with all time." The book would have been relevant fifty years ago, is relevant today, and I think will be relevant in another hundred years, as its themes of storytelling, religion, and survival are truly timeless. I also believe he has succeeded in expressing himself in a manner that is "broad and great, refined and sensible, sane and beautiful in itself." The narrative in Life of Pi simply floats off the page, and you can see the story unfolding beautifully in your mind. Even the gruesome parts of the book have a sophistication in the manner they are told that I believe constitutes a "classic." However, there are other parts of the definition provided that I do not think Martel meets. I do not think he has "caused [the human mind] to advance a step," or has "discovered some moral and not equivocal truth." I think that Martel presents his insights in a very unique manner that has never been seen before, but the actual lessons learned from the book have been known for centuries. His belief that humans and animals are not so different is something I have subscribed to since I was a child, and the lesson that humans can revert back to animalistic states in times of crisis is something that has even been explored by other authors, such as William Golding in his Lord of the Flies. I also think that his insight that religion is "the better story," a story told to help us cope with the tragedies of the real world, is something that has also been known by atheists and free thinkers for centuries. In conclusion, Martel has not truly composed a "classic", as his book fits some of the definition, but not all of it.
Woessner 7
I do not like to read books very often because none of them really interest me very much. However, Yann Martel’s book Life of Pi actually caught my attention. Concerning the first definition, “an author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step,” even though I did not like the ending because it did make you stop and rethink the whole book, I think it has definitely enriched my mind, as well as many others all around the world. The book kept me thinking and challenged whether my mind would believe in the impossible. He traps the readers into his book and they do not want to put it down. I loved how he combined and separated the three religions all throughout the book. It takes a real genius to be able to create this. He made us think past our “normal” beliefs by having the main character practice, and survive with, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism. He even is good friends with an atheist named Kumar. You would not normally think of a person practicing those three totally different religions. Martel makes us challenge our beliefs and open up our minds to new things all throughout the book. He should be rewarded for all of the research and time he put into this book. I think that with Life of Pi, Yann Martel has surely created a “classic.” If it is not yet a classic because of how recently it was created, it is soon to become one. This book definitely proves how much Yann Martel loves to write, and how much skill he possesses in his work. I do not think this book will ever lose all of its well deserved fame and it will keep being read and studied for a very long time.
Antrim 5
Yann Martel has deeply enriched my mind through Life of Pi. Since reading this book, my mind has been opened into wanting to explore more religions. In the future, due to reading this book, I would like to explore the two religions that I am unknowledgeable about and re-read Life of Pi. There is no doubt that with being knowledgeable about all of the three religions, Hindu, Muslim, and Christianity, that I would identify more religious symbols that Martel has hidden geniously in the book. Within doing so, I feel that my mind would advance more that one step. Martel sucks you into the book and challenges you to go beyond your level of thinking. He has challenged me, by making me think deeper about the world, and helped me discover that I myself believe that there is a possibility that all of the religions out in the world are correct. They're all a different way to get to heaven. Listening to the constant discussion, in class and outside of class, Yann Martel has challenged many youth into opening up their minds into a whole new world. Life of Pi has the whole world in a commotion. Martel ending the book as he did leaves for much discussion on whether the animal version of the story or the story about the cook, a sailor and his mother are true. As much as people would like to believe the story with the animals, I feel like much of the world believes the story with the humans. None of us want to think that a human (the cook) would do such a thing to another. Sadly it is more plausible than sharing living quarters with a tiger and live to tell the story. Writing Life of Pi in a format that makes it come from Pi’s point of view being written by another man, Martel creates a sense of realism throughout the book. It is this style of writing Martel enquires that makes this novel a classic and a book that should be considered canonized.
Yann Martel has enriched my mind, through out his book (Life of Pi) he makes you think about what will happen in the future, and he makes you wonder what happened in the past. Although I did not enjoy reading this book as much as I did others, I will cherish this book and maybe sometime down the road I will pick it up again and find more entertaining and will treasure it a bit more. Martel caused all authors (in my opinion) to step up their game a bit. The way Martel ends this book you sit there and wonder, Why Martel, Why did you create this amazing novel and end it that way? Unlike the ordinary novel plot line where it ends, and the reader is satisfied with the ending. Martel also give you the option to believe in what you want too. Martel evoked my passion of reading again, mere days after finishing the novel I re-read a four book series in four days, and he made me look into them deeper and decided what is real and what is not. I believe Martel expressed his thoughts, observations and inventions in this novel. Not many writers can interweave all the information he put down in words and make it an easy read. He made all of his words sail smoothly from one to the next and made the readers want to keep reading. I've never read a book in the way Martel writes, in first person, but a story being told by another. Although I picked up right away when Pi was speaking and when the author was speaking I always found it hard to believe I was reading a story about a story.
Henderson2
Life of Pi, possibly canonized? I think Life of Pi could easily be canonized. “An author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step;” The well written novel makes the reader curious about many things such as religion and obviously what the true story is. To me, Life of Pi did more than just enrich my mind; Life of Pi has expanded my mind and shed light on subjects I have never thought of before. “Who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style, a style which is found to be also that of the whole world, a style new without neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.” When it comes to a style, Yann Martel just about made his own style of writing and it blows my mind. Yann Martel's novel created a new idea of multiple religions and an incredible journey. It is stated that the novel could make one believe in God. “Revealed some eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered;” I already had faith in God but the novel made me examine my faith and how faithful I really am and I think that is what Martel was shooting for. Martel’s novel remains as the only book to ever make me feel emotion arising from the book. The emotions seemed to leap off the page and flood my emotions. No matter what Pi was feeling, I had that same type of feeling. The point that Pi survived the amazing journey has given me a new perspective on life. Is that not what a classic is supposed to do? Life of Pi may have been fiction but I still want to believe that it was real. To me a book that provides that type of that should be considered a classic and should be canonized.
John Bachman pd 1
Can Martel, the author of “Life of Pi” be canonized for enrichment to the human mind? The answer, of course, is “yes”. In this manuscript, he has brought to light many issues regarding the struggles of humans rationalizing their own morality in light of the society’ expectations of morality. Martel has expressed “moral truth” and “reveal[s] eternal passion in that heart where all seemed known and discovered” by bringing to light the struggles that many have with what they think is the truth and what is actually a truth based on their own experiences and internal compass readings. Martel challenges the reader to question their settings on their moral compass as society’s settings or their own.
In “Life of Pi”, Mr. Martel “expresse[d]his thought, observation, or invention” in unique form to invoke thought provoking ideas, such as letting every religious view co-exist in this world without criticism but with reason and understanding. Martel engenders his personal style by logically calling atheists his brothers and sisters of faith, but logic brings everyone to the same level.
Martel writes as covering numerous readers’ tastes, a literary style which “is found to be that of the whole world” by creating a novel that cuts through categorized literary categories in a writing style that is replete of “neologism, new and old, easily contemporary with all time.” In essence, this book will be relevant through the ages even as societal views change.
The “Life of Pi” takes on issues that society views as taboo in our society. Everyone thinks their own view of religion is separate and distinct. However, Martel challenges the reader to think that everyone’s “god” is actually one and the same but that we simply have different opinions of what how that deity fits in their moral compass. If only we could accept that everyone’s view of religion is acceptable and based on their own moral compass, then we would not have the governmental tyranny and wars in this world.
I absolutely think Life of Pi can be considered a classic novel. "An author who has enriched the human mind, increased its treasure, and caused it to advance a step", Martel made us think with his novel and with some individual even question themselves and how they go about their daily lives. Is it really possible to practice three religions at once? would you lose your faith, all of them, if you were stuck in the ocean with no hope of survival? would you want to be rescued if you knew your whole family was dead? what would YOU do? These are all questions I asked myself while reading this magnificent book, which can "reveal some eternal passoin in that heart where all seemed known and discovered", I feel as if I have come out better and enlightened from this novel, I'm sure we couldn't say the same for other books considered to be classics. Within the first chapter I knew Martel had a writing style that was different from any other novel I had read, he was sassy! It was actually difficult to read as if Pi was telling the story, instead of Martel himself. "...who has spoken to all in his own peculiar style...", he definitely has his own style, some little phrases that could even have been one-liners made me giggle continuously through the book, but more so before Pi found himself on a boat with a tiger. I hope Martel is an author recognized for his works before he passes, so he can be celebrated now instead of when it's "too late".
Post a Comment