Literary Analysis: The Alchemist

     I have two ideas for my literary analysis: either research alchemy and relate it back to the text or do some research on the author, Paulo Coelho.
     If I researched alchemy I would find out what it really is and how it relates to the book. I think if I understood more about alchemy, I could understand the book better considering that is what much of the book is about.
     The reason that I might be interested in researching Paulo Coelho is because when I started looking for information, one of the first things I saw was that he actually did a pilgrimage himself. I believe this could have much to do with The Alchemist, and the things he learned along his journey most likely contributed to his motivation for writing this book. Perhaps his pilgrimage was a lifelong dream of his.

The Alchemist

So far in this novel, I've noticed that fate has a lot to do with The Alchemist. The author talks about the universal language and personal legends. Coincidence is not a factor in the boy's happenings. Rather, things are good omens and they are "written." It is an interesting way to look at life. As the boy is traveling with the caravan he comes along the Englishman who also talks about omens. I think that many people probably share this feeling in the world.