Barthes' theory of writerly versus readerly text is a constant with me now, and I find proof of it again and again as I relate my own perspective to a writing, often coming up with something not likely the main intent of the author. Then again, this particular section from Martel's Life of Pi clearly relates to Pi's thoughts about religion, and I have taken it out of context to describe human nature:
These people fail to realize that it is on the inside that God must be defended, not on the outside. They should direct their anger at themselves. For evil in the open is but evil from within that has been let out. (p. 89)
And to highlight this next line:
This has been my feeling all along. If we bother to see the trees instead of trying to fence the forest. If we each realistically helped one other person, more if we're able, doing what we can physically with a meal, money, shelter, clothing when we come upon someone less fortunate, or someone in need of a willing ear or emotional support,it will do a lot more good than endless ranting and rallying for others to do it for us.
The Lost Children: A Charity Anthology