Answer:
(a) In the novel "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel, there are several details that indicate Pi's lamentation over killing the flying fish. Firstly, Pi describes the beauty and grace of the flying fish as they soar through the air, highlighting their elegance and natural ability. He admires their ability to escape the confines of the ocean and momentarily experience the freedom of flight.
Secondly, Pi expresses his remorse and guilt after killing the flying fish. He acknowledges that he is taking away a life and feels a deep sadness for ending such a magnificent creature's existence. Pi even goes as far as apologizing to the fish for his actions, recognizing that he has disrupted the natural order of life.
Furthermore, Pi's connection with nature and his understanding of its interconnectedness contribute to his lamentation. He sees himself as a part of the larger ecosystem and recognizes that every living being has its place and purpose. By taking a life unnecessarily, Pi feels a sense of disharmony within himself and with the world around him.
(b) Despite his lamentation over killing the flying fish, Pi continues to do so due to the harsh reality of survival at sea. The circumstances he finds himself in force him to make difficult choices in order to sustain himself. Pi is stranded on a lifeboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, with limited supplies and no immediate rescue in sight. In this desperate situation, he must rely on whatever resources are available to him.
Pi's decision to kill the flying fish is driven by his basic instinct for survival. He understands that without sustenance, he will not be able to endure the grueling conditions of being adrift at sea. The need for food overrides his emotional attachment to these creatures, as he recognizes that his own survival takes precedence.
Additionally, Pi's actions can be seen as a reflection of human nature when faced with extreme circumstances. When pushed to their limits, individuals often resort to actions they would not normally consider. Pi's killing of the flying fish can be seen as a manifestation of this primal instinct, where the preservation of one's own life becomes the primary concern.
In conclusion, Pi's lamentation over killing the flying fish is evident through his appreciation of their beauty, his remorse after taking their lives, and his understanding of the interconnectedness of nature. However, the harsh reality of survival at sea pushes him to continue killing in order to sustain himself. This conflict between his emotional response and the necessity for survival highlights the complexities of human nature when faced with extreme circumstances.
Step-by-step explanation: