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March 21, 2013
822 Words
Lessons Learned in The Alchemist
When creating literary works, authors think about more than just entertaining the reader. A book should convey a message, or teach a lesson. In The Alchemist, written by Paulo Coelho, the author has done exactly that. This great book teaches many lesson on achieving goals, working hard and many other things. In the book, “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, Santiago learns that he must learn from each person (or experience) that he encounters on his journey.   Through his encounters with Melchizedek, and the Crystal Merchant, the boy learns to trust himself, and that his hard work will be rewarded.  
Melchizedek, also known as the King of Salem, tells Santiago multiple things that help him gain trust over himself. First, Melchizedek discusses destiny and fate with Santiago. He says, “The Soul of the World is nourished by people's happiness. And also by unhappiness, envy, and jealousy. To realize one's destiny is a person's only real obligation. All things are one,” (22). Santiago realizes that his destiny is to find this treasure, wherever it may be. He finds out that the world will adjust and aid him in helping him achieve his personal legend. This builds trust because he now knows that it is his destiny to find that treasure and fulfil his personal legend. Second, Melchizedek advises Santiago on The World’s Greatest Lie. Melchizedek states, “That at a certain point in our lives, we lose control of what's happening to us, and our lives become controlled by fate,” (18). After hearing this, Santiago knows that what he has been doing till that moment was his fate and he had determined it. And this means that Santiago has hope in finding his treasure because it is his destiny to, and he shall determine his destiny. He trusts himself more because he knows that he controls his own life and it is not controlled by fate. Finally, Melchizedek informs Santiago of the Secret of Happiness. He declares, “The secret of...