Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho de Souza was born on August 24, 1947, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He is a celebrated lyricist and novelist, and his journey to literary acclaim is as compelling as his works. Coelho's early life was marked by rebellion and struggle. At 17, he was institutionalized by his parents due to his unconventional behavior, but he emerged with his spirit unbroken. At his family's behest, he briefly pursued law but soon dropped out, choosing instead to embrace the life of a hippie, traversing continents and delving into the world of music and writing. His experiences during these years laid the foundation for his later works.

Coelho's marriage to artist Christina Oiticica in 1980 and their life split between Rio de Janeiro and the Pyrenees reflect his blend of worldly and spiritual pursuits. The turning point in Coelho's career came after a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in 1986, a journey that inspired his first success, "The Pilgrimage," and paved the way for his international bestseller, "The Alchemist," in 1988. Despite initial setbacks, such as a failed first book and publisher reluctance, Coelho's storytelling—with its mystical themes and deep exploration of human potential—has resonated with millions worldwide.

His works, translated into 83 languages and selling over 320 million copies, have established him as a literary icon. Marked by a relentless pursuit of his dream to write, Coelho's life serves as a testament to the transformative power of following one's calling, inspiring aspiring writers and dreamers alike.

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Image: Xavier González