Book Review: Life of Pi

I've just finished reading the "Life of Pi". I enjoyed it very much, it explores a number of themes including religion, philosophy and human survival.  The story tells of how humans can triumph in the face of true adversity, it is a testament to us as a race. It inspires and captivates the imagination.  Particularly, the beginning when the author describes his own life in italics and how he discovered the idea of the whole novel plot from a little authentic village in India.  For me the beginning of the book was the best part as it was really interesting how 'Pi' discovered his inner self.  I loved how Martel described the way in which Mr Patel derived his name it made me laugh!

 

However, I was disappointed about the ending and I didn't think it made sense. Furthermore, contrary to the author's claim, I feel it could be seen as undermining a belief in God.

It didn't make sense to me because hundreds of pages in the book describe in fine detail the interesting survival in the boat. Then in the twist at the end there's a suggestion this was mostly a fantasy covering up an alternative story which he tells in about 3 pages.

I think his argument undermines belief in God because, although his apparent fantasy story has helped to save him at sea, is he suggesting that in all circumstances - non-emergency as well as emergency - we should tell and believe what we know to be fantasy stories in order to live, rather than deal with reality? That seems a rather a hollow basis for belief and one which many religious people would probably find patronising in respect of their own motivation.