Pursuit of Dreams: Athira Shaji

Festo De Coelho: Essay Writing Competition 

As part of the 73rd Birthday Celebrations of the renowned writer Paulo Coelho, the English Department of Al-Ameen College has conducted an essay writing competition, "Pursuit of Dreams in the works of Paulo Coelho". Athira Shaji has been able to bring forth the various notions like self discovery, love, courage and passion. This essay has won the first prize in the competition.

Pursuit of Dreams

Athira Shaji

PhD English Literature

EFLU, Hyderabad

"On your journey to your dream, be ready to face oasis and deserts. In both cases, don't stop."

      - Paulo Coelho

  

   Occasionally, in the pursuit to achieve an object, one is inclined to stumble upon deterrence that dissuades one to accomplish a particular goal. The society has a myriad of norms that are enforced upon us, a predominant setback that acts as a barrier in achieving a dream. One is deemed rebellious when he/she goes against the intrinsic societal codes and laws. The world of Paulo Coelho emboldens one to push boundaries and strive hard to accomplish one's dream. Paulo Coelho through his writings, teaches us a plethora of things, inherent in nature.  Through his book, The Alchemist, he shares his most powerful quote, "When you want something; all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it". Coelho reveals that one has to encounter hardships in order to do so.

    In his books, he delineates the inherent themes of Carpe Diem, self discovery, love, courage and patience . Most of Coelho's characters grapple with their mundane and monotonous life, pondering over the meaninglessness of  life altogether. But later they embark on a journey that propels them to discover the meaning of life.  In Veronica decides to die, the thought that she is about to die, gives Veronica the freedom to experience life, thus acquiring the ability to transcend her fear of certain things. In Eleven minutes, Maria becomes a prostitute, simply because she desires to be one. Similarly, Coelho's characters experience an epiphany that prompts them to follow their dreams, irrespective of the societal pressures.

     One must have a sense of individuality to realise one's potential. Only then one can go further to fulfill their dreams. Like Coelho's characters, letting go of one's fear of failure, will ensue in a life of abundance and happiness.