Conversation: Yann Martel, author of "Life of Pi"

Yann Martel discusses his novel Life of Pi, which won the Pulitzer Prize. The story follows a boy named Pi who survives a shipwreck with a tiger. Martel explains the inspiration behind the novel, including influences from Moacyr Scliar's work. He addresses the controversy over similarities between the two books, emphasizing their differences. Martel explores religious themes, mysticism, and the human condition, highlighting the importance of faith and storytelling. He shares his research process, which included studying religious texts and animal psychology, and reflects on his newfound understanding of religion.

What is the central theme of 'Life of Pi' as introduced in the beginning?

• A boy's journey to find treasure

• A tale of adventure and survival

• A story about a lost city

• A historical account of a shipwreck

What inspired Yann Martel to write 'Life of Pi'?

• A dream he had

• A Brazilian novel and his travels in India

• A documentary about animals

• A story told by his grandfather

How does Martel view the similarities between 'Life of Pi' and the Brazilian novel?

• As an unintentional coincidence

• As a completely different story with a similar premise

• As a tribute to the original novel

• As a direct copy

What does Martel suggest about the nature of ideas and storytelling?

• Ideas spread by being shared and can have multiple interpretations

• Storytelling is a personal endeavor

• Storytelling should always be factual

• Ideas are unique and cannot be shared

What was a significant part of Martel's research for 'Life of Pi'?

• Visiting zoos around the world

• Interviewing shipwreck survivors

• Reading foundational religious texts

• Studying marine biology

How did Martel's research influence his understanding of religion?

• It led him to reject organized religion

• It deepened his appreciation and understanding of religious beliefs

• It made him more cynical about religion

• It had no impact on his views

What does Martel believe about the language of religious mystics?

• They focus solely on dogma

• They speak different languages

• They share a common language of love and personal connection with God

• They are irrelevant to modern religion