Other elements that are present in this novel are symbols and metaphors. Symbols are the use of some unrelated idea to represent something else. Metaphors are direct comparisons made between one idea and another. There are many symbols used by the author such as:

1.) Dreams represent the language of God.

2.) The baker and the crystal merchant represent the loss of the dream........

........23.) The levanter - the wind crossing the Mediterrean - first represents the treasure to Santiago, but when he smells it after he finds the treasure in Spain, it represents the sweet smell of Fatima, waiting for him on the oasis.

There are also several metaphors in this novel, including:

1.) The baker's decision to make his bakery profitable instead of traveling around the world like he......

The complete study guide is currently available as a downloadable PDF, RTF, or MS Word DOC file from the PinkMonkey MonkeyNotes download store. The complete study guide contains summaries and notes for all of the chapters; detailed analysis of the themes, plot structure, and characters; important quotations and analysis; detailed analysis of symbolism, motifs, and imagery; a key facts summary; detailed analysis of the use of foreshadowing and irony; a multiple-choice quiz, and suggested book report ideas and essay topics.