A Comparison of Life of Pi by Yann Martel, and A Good Man Is Hard to Find by Flannery O’Connor

Throughout the history of literature, several narrative elements become prevalent in order to effectively create an appropriate literary framework unerring to each contributing piece. In various cases, setting often marks a considerable plot drive. The two individual pieces, Life of Pi by Yann Martel, and “A Good Man Is Hard to Find”, by Flannery O’Connor, appear entirely unrelated on the surface; however, they share an undeniable thematic parallel- the innumerable facets that setting encompasses often prompts individuals to persist in a specific manner impartial to their well being. Whether fighting for life in the desolate ocean, or vulnerably anticipating death, surrounded by the seemingly endless woodlands, characters must learn to adapt to their given circumstances. As leading protagonists, Pi and the grandmother adjust to their environments and process what remains to contend with, evolving accordingly for survival. Although in Pi’s situation he battles physically, both he and the grandmother emotionally confront their hardships, coping with both inward battles and personal seclusion. Their minds create an imaginative world which they utilize as a form of protection.
Piscine Molitor Patel, widely known as Pi throughout the riveting novel, strives himself to handle instances in a manner opposite to his previous beliefs in his time on the open ocean. Encountering a sea of distresses that alter him completely, Pi’s ability to extensively grasp situations aid him in his time of need. Ultimately, Pi’s aptitude reaches its brink. Initially, Pi professes his vegetarianism, but given his predicament he applies new logic. Moreover, with consideration of his survival, he recognizes that he must consume fish. As the novel progresses,...

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...asket, and the subject in control of the vehicle, Bailey, wrecks the car (O’Connor 426-427). Surrounded by the seemingly infinite setting, similar to Pi’s location, The Grandmother and her family confine within the forest. Without the ability to escape their reality, both physically and mentally, the family’s dismay thrives. The desolate ocean which Pi endures and the utterly remote woodlands that The Grandmother and her family experience evoke an inevitable correspondence; Moreover, they both must learn to cope with the seclusion in which they resist.

Works Cited

Martel, Yann. Life of Pi: A Novel. New York: Harcourt, 2001. Print.
O’Connor, Flannery. “A Good Man Is Hard To Find And Other Short Stories.” Literature: An
Introduction to Reading and Writing, 4th edition. Edgar V. Roberts. Upper Saddle River,
New Jersey: Pearson Education, 2008. 418-427. Print.