Symbols in the Alchemist
...e. Symbols are dangerous. Without authors who are willing to document exactly how they intend their work to be understood, each word is open to interpretation, and each will undoubtedly mean different things to different people; however, different interpretations of their work that affect people equally, and greatly, demonstrate a writer’s versatility. Symbols are the epitome of duality. While showcasing the literal meaning on an object effectively, a symbol also represents something deeper, yet just as real. Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist blends together an assortment of apparent symbols with much more careful, subtle representations. In the novel, the protagonist, and main character, Santiago, attempts to travel to Egypt and discover a rumored hidden treasure to fulfill what he deems to be his Personal Legend, or ultimate goal. Santiago, an educated shepherd, sleeps each night with his herd using his current novel as a pillow. After using numerous novels of different lengths for comfort, Santiago discovers that thicker novels afford easier relaxation and therefore more fulfillment. ...