The druid, decoded

My earlier review of Paulo Coelho's Zahir (herewith referred to as PC, or simply the druid) did not do justice to illustrate my addiction, affection and obsession for this writer. In professional terms, he is an author, his books are classified as fiction. But if I had my way, I would file them under philosophy. For some months now I have been devouring every website and book that his fingers have graced.

I am told that he has been "accused"(maybe that is too strong a word) of trivializing philosophy and the art of life. But I believe for some, simplistic presentation of philosophy(call it philosophy for dummies, if you will) is the only channel to nirvana. Therein PC is the right guide.

I have seen many pictures of this prophet, and the image that comes to my mind is that of the druid Getafix from Asterix. Granted, Getafix mixed concoctions for the Gauls to develop superhuman strength, similarly PC conjures potions for minds to develop superhuman strength. I have always found his writing to be simple in wordings and structure. But the message is clear and crisp.

I always wonder if his translated works are such superior works of prose, how much better the original could be. I am very tempted to learn Portuguese just so I can read exactly what this druid wrote, in his vernacular and literally seated inside his mind. My out-of-this-world wish is that if I could get ONE chance to spend some time with this word-magician, maybe sit at a cafe over coffee just to hear him tell me in person that "We can never judge the lives of others, because each person knows only their own pain and renunciation. It's one thing to feel that you are on the right path, but it's another to think that yours is the only path."

Ah, well there are so many of such pearls of wisdom that I would want him to tell me in person. Maybe a coffee break just wouldnt cut it. I'd get greedy and might want to extend it to dinner.

I have religiously tried to read every translated work of his, follow his blogsite like my daily online Bible and read his journals and e-zine with reverence.

For those that are scratching their heads as to who this PC character could be and are curious enough to check out his works, some websites have been included below. Be warned- don't take my word for it. Read his pennings and if you feel that instant connection, you'll find yourselves in an alternate heaven amongst the crowds rooting for this druid. If not, I'm sure, at least for a short period of time, your mind and intellect was challenged and you'd have highlighted at least one line for future use or recall.

The druid's website
The druid's blogsite
The druid's E-zine