Book Review: Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and The Old Man and The Sea by Earnet Hemingway

 Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and 

The Old Man and the Sea by Earnet Hemingway

Hello Readers,

Recently, I completed reading two incredible books. It was a chance—or perhaps a sort of miracle—that I began reading both texts together unintentionally. What a coincidence! Both books’ protagonists share the same name, Santiago, and both are in pursuit of their fortune. However, the nature of their fortunes differs significantly. Yes! You are absolutely right—I am talking about The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway.

Both The Alchemist and The Old Man and the Sea explore themes of perseverance, personal growth, and the pursuit of one’s destiny. The protagonists—Santiago in both novels—embark on life-changing journeys where they must overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. Both stories emphasize the importance of faith, endurance, and learning from one’s struggles.

However, the primary difference lies in their philosophical outlook and narrative focus. The Alchemist is a mystical, allegorical novel that emphasizes destiny, omens, and the universe's role in helping one achieve their "Personal Legend." It blends magical realism with spiritual wisdom, suggesting that when a person truly desires something, the universe conspires to help them achieve it. As the novel states, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” In contrast, The Old Man and the Sea is a realistic tale that highlights human endurance, isolation, and the dignity of struggle. Hemingway’s work is grounded in existentialism, focusing on the idea that success and failure are internal rather than determined by fate. It presents the idea that while external circumstances may defeat a person, true strength lies in persistence: “Man is not made for defeat… A man can be destroyed but not defeated.”

One Santiago follows omens, believing that the universe guides him toward his dream, while the other relies solely on his own willpower, determined to endure despite the forces working against him. This contrast makes the two texts a compelling study in opposing worldviews—one driven by faith in a guiding force and the other by sheer resilience against an indifferent world.

Another notable difference is in the role of nature. In The Old Man and the Sea, nature is both an adversary and a companion. The sea, the marlin, and the sharks symbolize the challenges of existence, representing both the beauty and brutality of life. Santiago’s battle with the fish is not just physical but deeply existential—an assertion of his identity and purpose. As he reflects, “You did not kill the fish only to keep alive and to sell for food... You killed him for pride and because you are a fisherman.” In contrast, The Alchemist portrays nature as a mystical guide. The desert, the wind, and the sun speak to Santiago, imparting wisdom and reinforcing the idea that nature collaborates with those who seek their destiny. At one point, Santiago realizes, “It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.”

While The Alchemist celebrates the fulfillment of dreams, The Old Man and the Sea portrays the struggle of existence and the nobility of enduring hardships with grace. One Santiago finds tangible treasure, reaffirming the belief that dreams materialize when one follows their heart, whereas the other Santiago returns with nothing but a skeleton—his efforts seemingly in vain, yet his spirit unbroken. As Hemingway writes, “But a man is not made for defeat. A man can be destroyed but not defeated.”

Reflecting on both texts, I was reminded of a metaphor I once explored for my digital portfolio presentation at the department: spectacles. Just as spectacles provide clarity when vision is blurred, literature offers new perspectives on life’s complexities. Some lenses enhance vision, helping us see what was previously hidden, while others shield us from harsh realities, much like sunglasses protect against the striking rays of the sun. The Alchemist and The Old Man and the Sea function as different lenses—one encouraging us to trust in fate and the other urging us to embrace struggle as an inherent part of life.

Both texts, though seemingly contradictory, are deeply thought-provoking. They compel us to reflect on two fundamental approaches to life: whether to surrender to the guiding forces of the universe or to fight relentlessly against the tides of fate. That is the beauty of both books and, of course, the brilliance of their respective authors. While one tells us that when we truly desire something, the universe conspires in our favor, the other teaches us that, despite our best efforts, we might lose everything—but what truly matters is how we endure the journey.