Orangutan vs. PI'S MOTHER:
In the novel, Life of Pi, by Yann Martel, not only is Richard Parker Pi, but Pi's mother is the orangutan (aka Orange Juice) in the second story narrated by Pi. Throughout the novel, we don't hear about Pi's mother too often, other than that she is a sympathetic woman towards her husband and her children, especially when it came to her husband's discipline of the boys and Pi's religious beliefs. In Pi's second story of the situation, we see how similar both characters are. When Pi's mother is described as Orange Juice, we see how she possesses many similar characteristics as a mother. "She remained gentle and unaggressive her whole life." (pg.143) This quotation described by Pi, shows how she is his mother because as described earlier, we learn that Pi's mother, Gita was always the omega in her relationship with her husband. Portraying that she is "gentle," also Orange Juice displays that she is Pi's mother because on the lifeboat, it seemed like she was constantly trying to make peace, plus she was very aggressive, when it came to her territory and safety. Like a mother, Orange Juice also helps out the people who keep her safe, which in this case is Pi. "And Orange Juice had not only cheered me up; she had also taken on both our feelings of seasickness. I was feeling fine now." (pg.135), which is an example of Gita and her actions. When Orange Juice is fighting the hyena, it displays the courage that she has, simply because they are an unmatched opponent. This displays her strength, and motherly instinct, also, because as a mother, although you may not be able to do it, because of physical characteristics, you will always find a way. As a woman, your instincts are constantly to be protective, especially because of maternity. So, it is made clear, that on the lifeboat she was trying to maintain her safety and her poise. "Mother kept an eye on him." (pg.342) even portrayed in the second story, we see how Gita and Orange Juice possess the same traits, not only because they are both females, but because they are the same person.
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Characteristics of Female orangutans: To deepen your understanding of orangutans and how they are related to Pi's mother, Gita, here are some fast facts about female orangutans. As mentioned in National Geographics, it states that, "Highly intelligent... Mothers and their young, however, share a strong bond." This quote directly explains the motherly characteristics that Orange Juice possess. As a mother, as explained previously, they share a bond with their maternity because they raised you from birth and will be there for you, although it may be difficult on them. Orangutans are known for birthing and protecting their young for many years, (approximately 6-7 years), which is a long time for animals.
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