Book Summary: The Pilgrimage

The Pilgrimage By Paulo Coelho | Amazon

The Pilgrimage is the precursor to the world renowned book, The Alchemist. The Pilgrimage follows a similar theme as some of Paulo Coelho’s other books. The theme of each person being on a journey to find one’s own life path. Paulo writes the book in first person. He writes of his own journey on the road to Santiago in search of his “sword”. The sword and other elements throughout the book serve as allegories pertaining to an individual’s life. He goes through many challenges as he advances on the road to Santiago. He learns exercises to help him discover important skills helping him on his journey. Petrus served as his guide throughout the story. His guide taught him many lessons along the way and helped Paulo apply the skills he acquired to the many challenges he faced.

At one point Paulo became so fascinated with the details of his journey that he almost forgot what he was after…his sword. He makes a point to emphasize that most people don’t find their swords in life. Paulo shares many lessons with his readers throughout this book. He includes the wise wisdom that any objective in your life will turn out to be better or worse depending on the route you choose to reach it. Also detailing that the path of knowledge is open to everyone. Paulo shared a key aspect of his journey, the Gates of Forgiveness. He initially saw the Gates but tried to bypass them. He eventually came to understand he would never find his sword until he entered the Gates of Forgiveness. Readers will benefit from reading this book. It provides context and teaches us the wisdom many search for on our journey’s of life.

Available on Amazon

Book Details

Pub Date: August 3, 2021 (Orig. 1987)

ISBN: 978-0061687457

Page Count: 288

Publisher: HarperOne; 2nd edition