In Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist, magic symbolizes possibilities and personal power. In particular, magic represents power that is beyond the constraints of society, power that taps into one's personal resources, power that leads one into fulfilling one's life purpose.
Santiago, the main character, meets Malchizedek, a mentor figure who guides Santiago through his personal quest. Malchizedek is adept at the use of magic. For example, early in the story Malchizedek charms two ordinary stones, investing them with magical powers. His mastery of magic represents personal agency and choice. Malchizedek makes decisions that go against the grain; he actively pursues his personal quest without being held back by the judgments and constraints of society. His mastery of magic means that Malchizedek has managed to meet his fear with courage, rather than be stifled by his fear. Santiago learns these skills as well. And as he learns how to trust his intuition, and how to lean into his own personal power, Santiago becomes more and more adept at the use of magic in his quest and in his daily life.
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