Dreams, The Universe and Paulo Coelho

One of the books that I read whilst in Austria was Like the Flowing River: Thoughts and Reflections by Paulo Coelho. Over the years I’ve read several books by Paulo Coelho. And I have mixed views on the things that he says.

I think that my main hang-ups are associated with statements that may have an element of truth in certain circumstances, but are patently not universal truths.

In his book, The Alchemist there are these words:

"And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it."

…

"There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve: the fear of failure."

In my heart and mind I feel and think that these statements are not true.

Maybe some people find that it works for them.

But I need only to watch the news on TV on almost any evening to know … to be certain … that for many people the universe seems to be disinterested … and unfulfilled dreams have nothing at all to do with the fear of failure.

I know, The Alchemist is a story. It isn’t a work of non-fiction. But it seems to also be written as a parable … a philosophy … a theology.

But the words … well … ultimately they seem to be empty because they seem to be not true.