* Piscine Molitor is a real name, referring to a famous swimming pool in Paris. Pi's father, a zookeeper, chose this name because he was fascinated by the pool.
* Pi is a shortened version of his given name, a nickname he adopts.
The title is a simple and effective way to highlight the central character and the journey he undertakes. It also subtly hints at the multifaceted nature of Pi's experience:
* Life: referring to the physical survival and the philosophical journey he undergoes.
* Pi: the mathematical constant, symbolizing infinity and the vastness of the ocean, as well as the complex, layered nature of Pi's story.
So, the title "Life of Pi" not only identifies the central character but also suggests the rich and profound themes explored throughout the novel.