Combining magic, mysticism, wisdom and wonder into an inspiring tale of self-discovery, The Alchemist has become a modern classic, selling millions of copies around the world and transforming the lives of countless readers across generations.
Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined. Santiago’s journey teaches us about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path, and, above all, following our dreams.
At the time, a part of him wants to take the chance of searching, while another part of him want him to continue with his ease of life, the mysterious king of Salem convinces Santiago that he has succeeded in discovering his personal legend. The old king tells Santiago that following his personal legend to its conclusion is a person’s only real obligation in life.Santiago listens to his heart and decides to follow the dangerous path leading to the treasure. He sells his flock of sheep and herds in Africa, where he is robbed of all his gold and left despondent on the streets. He feels he was foolish to believe in his dreams and starts working with a crystal merchant in order to save enough to get him back home.After a successful year, Santiago earns plenty and while walking down the streets to go back home, he ponders over taking a chance and continuing his search.
He joins a caravan to make the dangerous crossing across the desert, and as he rides along he begins to understand the Soul of the World. When the caravan makes it to an oasis, Santiago meets a girl named Fatima and struck by love at first sight. The local Alchemist, another mysterious man who reminds him of the old king, helps Santiago continue his journey across the desert, teaching him vital life lessons along the way. Santiago unknowingly evolves as a wise man, and is resolved to follow his dream to its end despite leaving his love behind at the oasis.
I have a feeling that a part of the story relate to me as I pursued my own personal legend. Like the shepherd, my journey started with an initial vision and my willingness to pursue it. I didn’t have any idea of how I would achieve the goal but I knew that I had to do it. And I did – reach destinations successfully!
And, been so lucky years ago while at Asian Age to be introduced to this wonderful Author when I was Official Blogger and VA to M J Akbar, then Editor who later even became MoS External Affairs…
A video : on Facebook : The Man Behind the Alchemist is worth a view.
https://www.facebook.com/LifeStories.Goalcast/videos/365203074083102/UzpfSTY0NDE5Njk3NzoxMDE1ODM0MzcxMzMyMTk3OA/?q=paulo%20coelho%20ilaxi&epa=SEARCH_BOX
Some quotes I like :
“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” “It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.”
“When we love, we always strive to become better than we are.
“I have seen many storms in my life. Most storms have caught me by surprise, so I had to learn very quickly to look further and understand that I am not capable of controlling the weather, to exercise the art of patience and to respect the fury of nature.”
Paulo Coelho
More: https://www.goalcast.com/2017/01/01/paulo-coelho-quotes/
#Paulocoelho #Author #Quotes #kidsfreesouls
