Question

Reread paragraph 31 of the excerpt from Life of Pi, paying particular attention to the words Martel uses to describe the dorado. What connotations do these words have? Why might Martel have chosen these words to describe the dorado?

Answer 1

In paragraph 31, Martel describes the dorado as "the most beautiful fish in the world." By using the phrase "most beautiful," Martel immediately evokes connotations of majesty, perfection, and awe-inspiring beauty. This description portrays the dorado as a creature that stands out from all other fish, reflecting its exceptional qualities.

Martel may have chosen these words to emphasize the significance of the dorado in Pi's journey. Throughout the novel, Pi seems to find beauty and wonder in even the most challenging and dangerous situations. By describing the dorado as "the most beautiful fish in the world," Martel may be highlighting Pi's ability to find beauty and hope even in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, the choice of words also serves to create a sense of contrast. In the preceding paragraphs, Martel describes the dorado's aggressive behavior, its desperation, and its moribund state. By juxtaposing these descriptions with the term "most beautiful," Martel creates a striking contrast that intensifies the impact of the dorado's appearance. It also underscores Pi's ability to find beauty even in unlikely circumstances, reinforcing his resilience and admiration for the natural world.