I think art comes from some sense of discomfort with the world, some sense of not quite fitting with it

I think art comes from some sense of discomfort with the world, some sense of not quite fitting with it

Yann Martel, the acclaimed author of Life of Pi, once said, “I think art comes from some sense of discomfort with the world, some sense of not quite fitting with it.” This statement perfectly encapsulates the essence of Martel’s work and his unique perspective on the role of art in society.

Martel’s novels often explore themes of isolation, alienation, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. In Life of Pi, the protagonist, Pi, finds himself stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger after a shipwreck. As he struggles to survive in the harsh conditions of the ocean, Pi grapples with his own sense of displacement and disconnection from the world around him. Through his vivid storytelling and imaginative narrative, Martel invites readers to contemplate the nature of existence and the human experience.

Martel’s belief that art arises from a sense of discomfort with the world speaks to the idea that artists are often outsiders, observers who see the world through a different lens. This outsider perspective allows artists to challenge societal norms, question authority, and push boundaries in pursuit of truth and beauty. Martel’s own experiences as a writer have undoubtedly shaped his views on the transformative power of art to provoke thought, inspire change, and offer solace in times of uncertainty.