Literature Analysis

Far too long overdue, I know.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

1. This "international bestselling phenomenon" is about a young Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago who sells his sheep to go on a quest to create his Personal Legend. He travels from his homeland in Spain to Egypt in search of a treasure buried near the Pyramids. Santiago must cross a desert, prove his worth to Arab military men, work in a crystal shop, and meet various different people who help him on his journey to find his treasure, all while learning valuable lessons. This book is about perseverance to find not only the physical treasure but also the treasure inside yourself. 
2. The theme of the novel is always have faith that you will eventually find your way. Santiago spent many years on his mission to find the treasure and make his Personal Legend along the way. When he first gets to Egypt, a conman steals his money. But he does not get discouraged enough to go back home; instead, he starts working at a crystal shop to make money and eventually earns more in a year than he ever had to start with. Then he must cross the desert with a caravan, and while they stop at an oasis, he falls in love with a local. He must leave to continue his journey, not knowing if he would ever return, but he has faith that he will one day. "Never stop dreaming. Follow the omens."
3. The tone is contemplative, earnest, forthright, and (with the literary/literal definition) awesome. The book is filled with messages, themes, valuable lessons. Whenever Santiago gets stuck or something goes wrong, someone comes into his life to help him whether physically or with smart words of wisdom. He remembers that he must persevere to find his treasure and continue no matter what because it will all be worth it.
4. "The girl was typical of the region of Andalusia, with flowing black hair, and eyes that vaguely recalled the Moorish conquerors." Direct characterization in this book is scarce. The reader learns about the characters most entirely from indirect characterization. At first Santiago is afraid, wary and cautious, but then his faith strengthens and he turns into a strong young man who is not afraid of adversity. The alchemist is tough and confident, always believing in Santiago and his ability to find his treasure and Personal Legend. 
5. Coelho's diction and syntax remain the same. 
6. The protagonist is dynamic. At the beginning, Santiago is a simple shepherd who has done the same thing year after year. He cares for his sheep, only worries about which grass fields will have the most grass. But by the end of his journey, Santiago has matured into a faithful, strong willed man with a treasure to his name. He has learned about perseverance, faith, and trust.
7. After reading the book, I feel like I have met an amazing person. I feel like I was there with Santiago on his long, arduous journey to find his treasure. I was emotionally invested in this short novel, caught up in the magic of it. One of my favorite parts is when Santiago talks to the wind and sun (you'll understand if you read the book, which I highly recommend). I understood and felt the same awe that the tribesmen felt. 

Overall, tremendously well-written book. Definitely recommend for everyone to read.