The Alchemist PT 2

In the Alchemist, the crystal merchant represents a feeling that almost everyone on earth finds themselves having. Doubt. Doubt that if they leave what they know behind, they may never see the same comfort in life again. Fear of the unknown. What lies ahead. Santiago sticks to omens the way people stick to religion and faith. The thought that something is guiding them, helping Santigo and the rest of the world to achieve their one true destiny in life, whatever that may be. Santiago reflects on becoming a shepherd again, because he knows what it is like being a shepherd. That is what is comfortable to him. It offers him security, whereas following his legend is an unknown path that he has yet to venture. If he does take the route of trying to achieve his legend, then he may find himself in uncomfortable, even life-threatening situations, but he will never know if he goes back to being a shepherd. Life could be different either way, but it will take you where you need to be. He could go back to being a shepherd and find himself unsuccessful, and thus back on the path to his legend.