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Literary Devices In The Alchemist

Decent Essays

The book, The Alchemist, written by Paulo Coelho, conveys many messages relating to life and society. The book outlines the story of a boy named Santiago who goes on a journey to the pyramids of Egypt, to find treasure. Along his way he learns about the concept of predetermined destiny, and the soul of the universe. One major moral shown within the book, is the idea that you should always pursue your dreams, despite minor obstacles, as you never know where it may take you. One literary device that conveys this message, is the device of irony. One example of irony in this book, is how Santiago set out to find the girl he wanted to see, but ended up finding the King of Salem instead. This is ironic, as this book shows how your destiny is predetermined, meaning that his destiny led him to learning about the concept of destiny. He followed his destiny which led him to a place he never expected, but ended up taking him on a journey. This shows readers to pursue what they want, because even if they don’t end up where they originally ended up, they may still end up somewhere else. A second example of irony relating the Coelho’s overall message was Santiago actually meeting the King. Santiago originally tried to ignore the King, as he just saw him as an old man. However, due to his morals, he acknowledges the King, and learns, on top of the concept of the Soul of the Universe, that many try to hide from their destinies. This is ironic, as meeting and speaking with the King is

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