Connecting...Life of Pi to other works

I think that one aspect of Life of Pi that connects to other texts stems from this quote, "I have heard nearly as much nonsense about zoos as I have about God and religion. Well-meaning but misinformed people think animals in the wild are "happy" because they are "free." (p. 15) This quote connects to other texts because we often confuse freedom with happiness. But I have found in my life that the times when I had the most freedom were not the times when I felt free at all, but the times where there were expectations and standards for choices or my behavior. Unfortunately, it is hard to pin down a specific time to illustrate this, there have been so many examples, but I think that there are a couple of general times in life that fit this profile: 1) after college graduation. Unless you are locked into a fellowship or graduate school, the wide world is open to you. This might explain why many college graduates search for awhile before finding their "true" callings in life. 2) after children leave the nest. Though I haven't experienced this, my parents have, and I feel I have lived vicariously through them. They have limitless options for how to spend their time, and it is interesting to see what they have chosen to do with it. I am a little bit jealous, too. 3) the first year in a new place. Yes, you might have a job or school, but the first year after moving often seems like you can do or be anything you want. 4)the first year in a relationship. Neither of you can do any wrong, and it is fun to explore and experience through your beloved's eyes. The hardest part of all of these is the making mistakes part. I think we actually make more mistakes when we feel most free.