Nature, Agency,
and Popular Fiction: An Ecocritical Inquiry into Paulo Coelho’s The
Alchemist
Dr.
Irshad Ahmad Parray,
Assistant
Professor,
Department of
English Language and Literature,
Islamic
University of Science and Technology,
Awantipora,
Kashmir, India.
Abstract: Paulo Coelho’s novel The Alchemist is the story of a shepherd in pursuit of
fulfilling his dreams. In portraying this journey, Coelho highlights the close
relationship between humans and the natural world. The novel depicts how
nature, as an agent, shapes and influences the choices and dreams of the young
shepherd. The setting and plot reveal how Santiago’s decisions are continually
guided and affected by elements of the natural world—such as the desert, omens,
the wind, the sun, and the Universal Language—in his quest to achieve his Personal
Legend. In this context, the paper explores how Coelho emphasizes the mystical
and symbolic power of nature and its role in Santiago’s life. It examines the
various forms of natural agency in the novel and their significance in human
life, particularly in personal growth, success, and self-discovery. The study
also explores how the novel, as a work of popular fiction, plays a crucial role
in conveying ecological concerns to a wider audience through its simple
narrative style and accessible language.
Keywords: Ecological concerns, natural agency, mystical power,
popular fiction
Introduction: Ecocriticism and Literature
Ecocriticism is a growing discipline that challenges anthropocentrism and raises awareness of current environmental concerns. It examines how non-human agencies play a crucial role in the world and exert significant influence. By doing so, ecocriticism fosters human consciousness regarding the importance and relevance of nature for the survival and well-being of humanity. This field warns against ecological devastation caused by human activities and practices, including industrialization, agriculture, mining, nuclear activities, and various forms of waste. Literary works often reflect these ecological threats, portraying the complex relationship between humans and nature. Critics highlight human activities such as industrialization, deforestation, and climate change as serious threats to the global ecosystem.
The relationship between literature and the environment is central to ecocritical studies, emphasizing how literary texts can raise human consciousness toward nature. Literature serves as a medium to convey environmental issues and promote ecological awareness. As Nair observes, “Ecocriticism believes that literary, visual, and other representations of nature are closely connected to an age’s views and treatment of nature” (242). Furthermore, ecocriticism demonstrates its interdisciplinary relevance. Nair notes, “It seeks links between literary studies and environmental activism, as well as between the human and social sciences and environmental discourse” (242). Hence, addressing ecocritical concerns requires understanding them at both interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary levels for the protection and preservation of Mother Earth.
To understand the depth of the environmental crisis, numerous luminaries of ecocriticism have attempted to define ecocriticism and emphasize its growing relevance to literature and literary art forms. Cheryll Glotfelty, one of its founding figures, defines it as follows:
What then is ecocriticism? Simply put, ecocriticism is the study of the relationship between literature and the physical environment. Just as feminist criticism examines language and literature from a gender-conscious perspective, and Marxist criticism brings an awareness of modes of production and economic class to its reading of texts, ecocriticism takes an earth-centred approach to literary studies (Glotfelty 1996: xix).
Glotfelty emphasizes the importance of connecting literature with other disciplines for the preservation of nature. Another scholar, Greg Garrard, defines ecocriticism as “…the study of the relationship between the human and the non-human throughout human cultural history, entailing a critical analysis of the term ‘human’ itself” (5). Garrard highlights that ecocriticism examines the historical relationship between humans and nature, as well as humanity’s evolving approach toward the non-human world. Richard Kerridge, in Writing the Environment (1998), presents a similar broad cultural perspective, noting:
The ecocritic wants to track environmental ideas and representations wherever they appear, to see more clearly a debate which seems to be taking place, often part-concealed, in a great many cultural spaces. Most of all, ecocriticism seeks to evaluate texts and ideas in terms of their coherence and usefulness as responses to environmental crisis (5).
The above definitions underscore ecocriticism’s role in examining human–nature relationships, raising ecological consciousness, and linking literary studies with environmental discourse. They advocate serious research and the articulation of ecological concerns across various art forms to promote the preservation of nature and ensure safe and peaceful coexistence.
Objectives, Methodology and Significance of
the study
The above discussion sets the scope and framework for an ecocritical study of The Alchemist. It investigates how non-human agencies in the novel are represented as active agents in the spiritual and ethical growth of the protagonist, Santiago. The paper analyzes various agents of nature—such as the sun, the desert, and animals—that assist Santiago in his spiritual development and in achieving his Personal Legend, rather than functioning as a passive background. The narrative and plot of the novel invite a deep ecocritical reading to comprehend the interdependence between nature and humanity and to awaken human conscience toward environmental justice and the ethical treatment of the environment. The study also highlights the role of popular fiction in the growth and development of environmental studies and its relevance to contemporary discourse on the ecological crisis prevalent in society.
The analysis applies ecocritical theory to explore and examine the relationship between nature and humans. It investigates human ethical responsibility and challenges the dominance of anthropocentrism. The ideas and arguments of prominent scholars emphasize the need to address environmental degradation and its representation across various art forms. Hence, the theoretical background sets the tone for the textual analysis of the novel by examining its ecological relevance. The study is qualitative and interpretative in nature, drawing on key conceptual issues highlighted in ecocriticism. Therefore, the approach foregrounds the interconnectedness of the human world and nature, emphasizing their mutual relationship for the survival and well-being of both.
The significance of this study lies in demonstrating how popular fiction can play a meaningful role in shaping and influencing contemporary discourse on ecological issues. It shows that popular literature can serve as an effective and accessible medium for addressing pressing concerns such as environmental crises. The study also emphasizes that even a simple yet engaging plot and narrative can effectively convey these themes without complexity. Furthermore, it highlights the capacity of literary texts to raise awareness about the natural world and promote ecological consciousness. The research expands the pedagogical scope of The Alchemist, which is primarily read for spiritual and philosophical purposes, by revealing its ecological relevance. Additionally, the study underscores the role of translation across languages and cultures in enriching discussions on environmental issues, as exemplified in the novel.
Brief Biography of the Author and Summary of
the Novel The Alchemist
Paulo Coelho is a Brazilian writer widely known for exploring spiritual and philosophical themes related to life, self-discovery, struggle, and destiny. He employs a simple narrative style and accessible language that appeals to a broad readership. The Alchemist, originally published in Portuguese in 1988, is his most widely read novel. It has been translated into more than 80 languages worldwide and has sold over sixty-five million copies, becoming an international bestseller.
The novel tells the story of a young boy, Santiago, who follows a recurring dream about a hidden treasure and travels from Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of it. Throughout this journey, he faces numerous hardships and challenges in his pursuit of his Personal Legend. As a result, Santiago undergoes a profound transformation, learning important lessons about life and spirituality. He gradually becomes aware of the mystical power of nature, which guides him throughout his journey and aids him in achieving his Personal Legend. Ultimately, Santiago realizes the hidden power of nature and comes to understand that the world is deeply interconnected, with all beings dependent on one another.
Analysis and Discussion: An Ecocritical Study
of the Novel
The novel The
Alchemist portrays profound ecological concerns within its
narrative. It emphasizes how various agents of nature—such as the desert, wind,
moon, and pastoral settings—guide the protagonist, Santiago, in fulfilling his
dreams and realizing his Personal Legend. These natural elements help him
develop a deep respect for the enduring power of nature, foster self-discovery,
and give him the courage to pursue his aspirations. This discussion explores
the ecocritical themes of the novel through an ecocritical framework, examining
how nature actively shapes Santiago’s journey and personal growth.
1. Nature
Speaks: Omens, Signs, and Ecological Awareness
One of the strongest ecocritical themes in The Alchemist is that nature possesses its own language and consciousness. It communicates through signs, intuition, omens, and symbols. For instance, elements such as the desert, wind, sun, and animals interact with Santiago throughout his journey. As he embarks on his quest, Santiago begins to learn the “language of the universe” through these natural symbols. As the novel notes, “He has other things to do first. But he’s on the right track. He has begun to try to understand the desert” (109). At another point, Santiago learns to interpret the language of animals, such as camels: “There are many languages spoken by things,” the boy said. “There was a time when, for me, a camel’s whinnying was nothing more than whinnying. Then it became a signal of danger. And, finally, it became just a whinny again” (131). These instances highlight how Santiago becomes increasingly conscious of the agency of nature and develops a harmonious relationship with it. He comes to understand that nature actively participates in his journey and serves a purposeful role in guiding him toward his Personal Legend.
In the novel, Paulo Coelho suggests that decision-making in life is not always guided by logic; sometimes one must listen to intuition. He emphasizes that a genuine understanding of the world depends on perceiving the signs of nature, which are always present. As the novel states, “The boy was beginning to understand that intuition is really a sudden immersion of the soul into the universal current of life, where the histories of all people are connected, and we are able to know everything, because it’s all written there” (71). Later, Santiago again experiences the guidance of intuition and the language of the world: “He watched the hawks as they drifted on the wind. Although their flight appeared to have no pattern, it made a certain kind of sense to the boy. He followed the movement of the birds, trying to read something into it” (95). Understanding this universal language, a recurring concept in the novel, is essential for interpreting the signs and symbols in the natural world. As further emphasized, “You must understand that love never keeps a man from pursuing his destiny. If he abandons that pursuit, it’s because it wasn’t true love…the love that speaks the Language of the World” (115).
The above discussion clearly illustrates how nature possesses a guiding power that can lead a person toward their goals. It shows that one can recognize and harness the true power of nature by being conscious, attentive, and genuine. What ultimately matters are a person’s true intentions and the effort they put into their journey.
II. The Soul of the World
One of the central themes in the novel is the Soul of the World, which suggests that all things in the universe are interconnected, and humans are an integral part of this creation. Harming nature disrupts the balance of the entire ecosystem, affecting all beings. Thus, the preservation of nature and respect for it are essential to safeguarding humanity from potential dangers and disasters. In this context, Santiago, while recounting his experience to an Englishman after his success in the crystal shop, learns about this principle. The Englishman explains:““That’s the principle that governs all things,” he said. In alchemy, it’s called Soul of the World. When you want something with all your heart, that’s when you are closest to the Soul of the World. It’s always a positive feeling” (75). He further elaborates: “Everything on earth is being continuously transformed, because the earth is alive…and it has a soul. We are part of that soul, so we rarely recognize that it is working for us. But in the crystal shop you probably realized that even the glasses were collaborating in your success” (75). These passages highlight that a person’s true efforts and curiosity are supported by the interconnected forces of the world. As the novel states: “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it” (21). This conveys a profound message about the harmonious relationship between humans and nature and underscores the idea that human aspirations are intertwined with the natural world.
The discussion above challenges the anthropocentric view that places humans at the center of the world. Instead, it emphasizes that all things are rooted in mutual interdependence. Everything in the natural world is interconnected, requiring awareness and understanding for the well-being and survival of all beings. This underscores the need to recognize the essential role of nature in human life and to cultivate a respectful and harmonious relationship with it.
III.
Materialism as Ecological Alienation
Paulo Coelho reveals that excessive desire for material wealth can lead humans to exploit and harm nature, diverting them from living a purposeful life. This theme is clearly illustrated in the novel through Santiago, who leaves his home to become a shepherd and pursue his dream of traveling the world, despite being expected to follow the path of the priesthood. As the novel states:
His parents had wanted him to become a priest, and thereby a source of pride for a simple farm family. They worked hard just to have food and water, like the sheep. He had studied Latin, Spanish, and theology. But ever since he had been a child, he had wanted to know the world, and this was much more important to him than knowing God and learning about man’s sins. One afternoon, on a visit to his family, he had summoned up the courage to tell his father that he didn’t want to become a priest. That he wanted to travel. (8)
This
demonstrates that Santiago is not motivated by material possessions but by a
desire to explore and experience the world. Coelho suggests that true life is
found in harmony with nature, where one discovers the hidden treasures of
existence, such as solace, wisdom, and happiness. Santiago’s
transformation—from leaving the comfort of his home to embracing a life full of
struggle and adventure—illustrates the profound personal growth that comes from
engaging with the natural world and following one’s Personal Legend.
IV.
Spiritual Ecology in The
Alchemist
In the novel, nature is portrayed as possessing spiritual and healing power. Various agents of nature provide important lessons to the protagonist, Santiago. His journey through the desert and encounters with natural elements such as the wind and the pyramids teach him endurance, patience, and humility. These experiences strengthen his faith and guide him toward achieving his Personal Legend. As the novel states: “When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too” (143). It emphasizes the deep connection between the inner soul and the outer world. Furthermore, it is suggested that, “It’s the simple things in life that are the most extraordinary; only wise men are able to understand them” (14). This implies that true fulfillment arises from appreciating life’s simplicity and living in harmony with nature, rather than pursuing material wealth.
Conclusion
To
conclude, the novel The
Alchemist imparts valuable lessons about the significance of nature
and its relevance to the well-being of humanity. The narrative carries a
profound message encouraging humans to respect, love, and protect the natural
world. It challenges materialistic and anthropocentric attitudes that exploit
nature, emphasizing that meaningful life arises from living in harmony with the
environment. The novel also underscores humans’ ethical responsibility toward
nature, warning against the domination of natural resources for personal gain.
Through Santiago, Paulo Coelho conveys that the true purpose of life can be
realized through humility, honesty, hard work, and self-discovery.
Experiencing, exploring, and engaging with nature are essential for attaining a
peaceful and fulfilling life. Furthermore, this study highlights the role of
popular fiction in shaping and disseminating contemporary discourses, such as
ecocritical concerns, across literature and other fields.
Works Cited
Coelho,
Paulo. The Alchemist. Harper Collins
Publishers, 1993.
Garrard,
Greg. Ecocriticism. 2nd ed.,
Routledge, 2012.
Glotfelty,
Cheryll. “Introduction.” The Ecocriticism
Reader: Landmarks in Literary Ecology, edited by Cheryll Glotfelty and Harold
Fromm, University of Georgia Press, 1996, pp. xv–xxxvii.
Kerridge,
Richard, and Neil Sammells, editors. Writing
the Environment.
Zed Books, 1998.
Nayar,
Pramod K. Contemporary Literary
and Cultural Theory: From Structuralism to Ecocriticism. Pearson
Longman, 2009.