The Alchemist: Themes and Symbols

Themes

Personal Legend – A term coined by Coelho specifically for this novel, it represents perhaps the book’s most important idea. It refers to an individual’s purpose in life, or destiny. According to the author, each one of us, when young, nurtures a dream. If we do not pursue this dream, we gradually tend to abandon it as we grow older, typically because of the several challenges and obstacles that life throws at us. The entire narrative of the book concerns the protagonist’s pursuit of his Personal Legend.

All things are one – This book is replete with examples that hint at the universal nature of language, religion, and destiny. That Santiago can communicate with the sheep and the candy seller despite not sharing a mutual language with either indicates the novel’s focus on language as a surmountable barrier if one connects with another being at the level of the soul. The novel mentions aspects such as “universal language,” “language without words,” and other similar terms to illustrate as much. We also see a similar narrative thread in the novel’s approach to the question of religion. Throughout the book there are Biblical references, but there are also references to other religions, including Islam. The novel, from time to time, hints at—and possibly posits—one God. The idea at the core of the book is that the universe is one whole; it connects with mortals through signs, omens, and symbols. Accordingly, mortals can understand this language if they are in tune with their surroundings. Every being is a part of that one thing. This is most prominent in the final parts of the novel when Santiago communicates with the wind, the desert, and the sun before performing his miracle. He is successful because he realizes that his soul—and indeed, by extension, our soul—is part of the soul of the Supreme Being, and in that sense he, too, is God.

Alchemy – Aimed at transforming base metals into gold, alchemy is a form of chemistry practiced in the Middle Ages. In the novel, alchemy is mostly used as a metaphor. It refers to a kind of distillation of the self and the attainment of an ideal state of being where one is attuned with the soul of the universe. It is worth noting that the Englishman is a lifelong student of the discipline, but has not succeeded in the practice of alchemy. In stark contrast, Santiago, the shepherd boy, relies on his intuitions and knowledge gained from life. While we do witness the literal act of transforming metal into gold in the novel, alchemy is also what happens in that perfect magical moment when the mortal self transforms to become one with the creator.

Sheep/Shepherds – Santiago, the book’s central character is a shepherd boy. In the Bible, Christ is often referred to as the shepherd and his followers as his flock of sheep; the latter, by being likened to a flock of sheep, represent complete surrender and obedience. However, right in the beginning we see Santiago bemoaning the absolute dependence of his sheep on him. He feels they will not resist even if he tries to kill them. In the novel, the sheep stand for unquestioning, unthinking obedience and acceptance, which the author does not seem to be in favor of. Santiago’s father is like the sheep; preferring the safety and comfort of home, he did not dare to pursue his dreams. However, the author also underlines the special bond between the shepherd and his flock, much like the bond between Jesus and his true followers. They can communicate through a universal language, which can be seen in the way Santiago talks to his sheep.

Symbols

Books – The novel warns the reader against an excessive reliance on books. It shows how books can sometimes reinforce and highlight only the obstacles in the path of achieving one’s Personal Legend. Thus, they may dissuade the readers from embarking on their own journey. For instance, Melchizedek meets Santiago when the latter is reading a book. The king of Salem dismisses the book, since a character in the book does not fulfil his Personal Legend. Much later, the Englishman’s character illustrates that depending solely on books for knowledge can hinder one’s progress. It is equally important to pay attention to one’s surroundings, hone one’s intuitive skills, and be open to the various experiences that life has to offer, the book seems to suggest.

Biblical/Koranic allusions – The book includes several characters and allusions from the Bible as well as from the Koran. It is a way of conveying the belief that all religions are one and equal.

The desert – Much of the novel is set in the Sahara desert. The desert is perceived as being inhospitable to man and is often a place where man’s survival skills are put to the ultimate test. The alchemist says that the desert kills those who are distracted. In the book, unknown dangers lurk in the desert, but it is also a teacher, and it sustains life. Santiago is in awe of the desert’s vastness and realizes that the desert has a soul of its own.

The oasis – The oasis represents fertility and abundance. It is a sanctuary that preserves life. In the book, the oasis is a place that holds many a temptation for Santiago. It is not just where Santiago meets Fatima but also the place where he gains a good reputation with the chieftains. He is almost tempted to abandon his quest on account of his love for Fatima.