The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is undoubtedly a must-read for every individual. The book is simple in its words, but the level of depth is impressive; it makes every individual look at their lives and question what is being asked of them. It is a feel-good book, not too long – classy and specific to its aspect and themes.
The main message that the book gives to its readers is the pursuit of one's Personal Legend. What is their mission on this Earth? What is he supposed to achieve? What is the world asking him to do? The book also signifies how personal dreams get dismissed, but they are the only thing that keeps us living and existing in this mystical nature of chaotic life. The great truth which the book speaks about – "whoever you are, or whatever it is that you do when you really want something, it's because that desire originated in the soul of the universe."
It is believed that in a world where everyone achieves their Personal Legend, the world would get better and organized. Material possessions or emotions should not come in the way because you won't be happy in life. There will be regret and failure, as we could see in the case of the crystal merchant.
The author tries to convey to the readers that dreams are a message from the universe. A message which should not be ignored. Santiago is constantly disturbed by his dream of treasure at the foot of the Pyramids. This was when he lived in Andalusian, far away from Egypt, as a shepherd. After being bothered a lot, he talks to the Old Woman of Tarifa urges him to go after his dream. Santiago is unsure until he meets Melchizedek pushes him a bit more towards pursuing his dream.
Throughout his journey, he faces too many challenges. All his money gets stolen the day he reaches a new city. He gets afraid but still has faith in himself. He finds a job the very next day and, within a year, earns much more than he had. He thinks about returning to his home, but his pursuit of Personal Legend helps him move forward. More than once, he gets pushed and pulled back in his quest. By the end, he is a different person. He is spiritual, wise and a transformed individual.
At the end of the book, Santiago learns that Personal Legend is about achieving your goal and learning in that way. The legendary alchemists- on which the book's title is, got too involved in turning metals into gold. Once they achieved their personal legend, they gave up on any sort of development and growth. And that is precisely why Santiago travelled all through the book, meeting different people, having rich experiences, and faced immense challenges. All of this is just to know that his treasure was back in his homeland, which he left initially. This is both ironic and essential because if he had not travelled that journey, he wouldn't have learned the art of living.
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