Comments on: Readers’ Corner for The Witch of Portobello http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/ Fri, 25 May 2012 14:37:12 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2 By: Precious Alchemy http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-14/#comment-627497 Precious Alchemy Sat, 01 Jan 2011 01:38:34 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-627497 What an exquisite book. I read the Alchemist several years ago... and recently a coaching colleague of mine, fully aware of my passion for dance, suggested I read 'The Witch of Portobello'. Today on the last day of 2010 I walked into my local bookstore, and she (Athena) called me. It took me a while to find her...three attempts on the store computer...and....there was one left....for me. I purchased the book along with a small bar of dark almond Godiva chocolate (I know...sinful), my regular Chai Latte, found the only remaining comfy couch in the coffee shop...and dived deep into the words, swept away by its rhythm and melody. Pure bliss. Disgruntled I was when the store owner announced they were closing in 10 minutes...I knew what I had to do. A single mum myself, with a passion for dance, and New Year's Eve all to myself...I had to dance. The question is....can anyone give me the names of similar type of music that Athena danced to (Russian trance dancing?). If you are familiar with any particular tracks...please let me know. Thanks...And may your 2011 be magically extraordinary.... What an exquisite book. I read the Alchemist several years ago… and recently a coaching colleague of mine, fully aware of my passion for dance, suggested I read ‘The Witch of Portobello’. Today on the last day of 2010 I walked into my local bookstore, and she (Athena) called me. It took me a while to find her…three attempts on the store computer…and….there was one left….for me. I purchased the book along with a small bar of dark almond Godiva chocolate (I know…sinful), my regular Chai Latte, found the only remaining comfy couch in the coffee shop…and dived deep into the words, swept away by its rhythm and melody. Pure bliss. Disgruntled I was when the store owner announced they were closing in 10 minutes…I knew what I had to do. A single mum myself, with a passion for dance, and New Year’s Eve all to myself…I had to dance. The question is….can anyone give me the names of similar type of music that Athena danced to (Russian trance dancing?). If you are familiar with any particular tracks…please let me know. Thanks…And may your 2011 be magically extraordinary….

]]> By: alleeenaaa http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-587076 alleeenaaa Wed, 06 Oct 2010 07:18:59 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-587076 i finished the book.. i loved it esp the ending that it was the scotland yard guy who was the compiler. paulo i simply love and adore u.. ur writings never fail to comfort inspire and amze me.. u seem to just understand.. love u.. u r a real angel i finished the book.. i loved it esp the ending that it was the scotland yard guy who was the compiler. paulo i simply love and adore u.. ur writings never fail to comfort inspire and amze me.. u seem to just understand.. love u.. u r a real angel

]]> By: Tom http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-585811 Tom Fri, 01 Oct 2010 03:34:40 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-585811 I just finished the book, and I think it's clear that the compiler is the Scotland Yard boyfriend, who Paulo did such a great job of making us think did not exist. I haven't read them all yet, but I think this might be his best work, or at least my favorite. It's just as touching, inspiring and thought provoking as anything I've read so far. But it also has some really cool and imaginative literary elements. As the reader you know up front that she will end up murdered, and so you're continually asking yourself how that will happen. Based on how the characters are presented and little hints here and there, I alternated between thinking the murderer would be Heron or Andrea, and then of course later the reverand. I think the changing points of view and variety of perceptions are brilliant. I'm also fond of the ending, which further drives home the point that everyone's reality is a function of their own perception. With the exception of her parents, all the characters are convinced she is dead and so the reader does as well. When it turns out she's not, Paulo is challenging you to question your own assumptions about reality, and how easily you may be persuaded to believe something that is false. What does truth really mean anyway? I just finished the book, and I think it’s clear that the compiler is the Scotland Yard boyfriend, who Paulo did such a great job of making us think did not exist.

I haven’t read them all yet, but I think this might be his best work, or at least my favorite. It’s just as touching, inspiring and thought provoking as anything I’ve read so far. But it also has some really cool and imaginative literary elements. As the reader you know up front that she will end up murdered, and so you’re continually asking yourself how that will happen. Based on how the characters are presented and little hints here and there, I alternated between thinking the murderer would be Heron or Andrea, and then of course later the reverand.

I think the changing points of view and variety of perceptions are brilliant. I’m also fond of the ending, which further drives home the point that everyone’s reality is a function of their own perception. With the exception of her parents, all the characters are convinced she is dead and so the reader does as well. When it turns out she’s not, Paulo is challenging you to question your own assumptions about reality, and how easily you may be persuaded to believe something that is false.

What does truth really mean anyway?

]]> By: Margaret Wade http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-582021 Margaret Wade Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:48:18 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-582021 I read The Witch of Portobello for a literature class I'm taking. The "writer" of the book, which is the person who compiled interviews, is Athena's unnamed Scotland Yard boyfriend. At least this is the way I interpreted the final chapter and any chapters in italics. My professor initially says Heron is the interviewer and compiler of the interviews. In the first chapter he says she's dead. Yet in the last chapter, in italics it states her death was staged. All those interviewed believe her to be dead. Am I correct or did I miss something? I read The Witch of Portobello for a literature class I’m taking. The “writer” of the book, which is the person who compiled interviews, is Athena’s unnamed Scotland Yard boyfriend. At least this is the way I interpreted the final chapter and any chapters in italics. My professor initially says Heron is the interviewer and compiler of the interviews. In the first chapter he says she’s dead. Yet in the last chapter, in italics it states her death was staged. All those interviewed believe her to be dead. Am I correct or did I miss something?

]]> By: katie http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-580884 katie Thu, 16 Sep 2010 05:46:46 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-580884 "Energy moves in waves. Waves move in patterns. Patterns move in rhythms. A human being is just that, energy, waves, pattern, rhythms. Nothing more. Nothing less. A dance." - Gabrielle Roth cool to find somebody who can express in words what I feel :o) thanks, dina <3 enjoy your beautiful travel. “Energy moves in waves.
Waves move in patterns. Patterns move in rhythms.
A human being is just that, energy, waves, pattern, rhythms.
Nothing more. Nothing less. A dance.”
- Gabrielle Roth

cool to find somebody who can express in words what I feel :o)
thanks, dina <3
enjoy your beautiful travel.

]]> By: doron http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-573767 doron Sun, 15 Aug 2010 20:06:49 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-573767 Dear Paolo and friends, I am on the middle of the book plus minus, and just feeling the need to right you personaly. on the last years i have been working and leaving with many energies, forces and feelings.. very similar to Ethna.. I feel we have a lot in common, and that maybe i even met her sometime? sometime i can sound crazy even to myself, but this is my confirmation that I am on the right way.. I am an Israeli that is leaving on he sea around the world on a sailing yacht. I didnt finished the book yet, but i know that i want to meet you Paolo, and her in you. I already read many of your books, but this is the first time when i feel we need to meet. I want to invite you to my yacht for a sailing trip whenever you like, or if you can't, please let me know how can i have 10 quality minutes with you? I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make it real. I really don't know where this massage going to take me, it is the first time I'm writing on the internet like this, but i feel it is the right things to do, spreading my bread over the water, putting out my intention and let the "mother" do her work like she always does. Dear Paolo and friends,
I am on the middle of the book plus minus, and just feeling the need to right you personaly.
on the last years i have been working and leaving with many energies, forces and feelings.. very similar to Ethna..
I feel we have a lot in common, and that maybe i even met her sometime?
sometime i can sound crazy even to myself, but this is my confirmation that I am on the right way..
I am an Israeli that is leaving on he sea around the world on a sailing yacht.
I didnt finished the book yet, but i know that i want to meet you Paolo, and her in you.
I already read many of your books, but this is the first time when i feel we need to meet.
I want to invite you to my yacht for a sailing trip whenever you like, or if you can’t, please let me know how can i have 10 quality minutes with you?
I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make it real.
I really don’t know where this massage going to take me, it is the first time I’m writing on the internet like this, but i feel it is the right things to do, spreading my bread over the water, putting out my intention and let the “mother” do her work like she always does.

]]> By: Dina http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-571015 Dina Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:23:26 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-571015 There are those few moments and few books in our lives that make a profound difference. Sometimes it has to with our own rhythm of life and where it brings you, or how that particular idea or thought collides beautifully in a reality of our dream that's our life. Witch of Portobella is that book. I've been travelling in South East Asia and in suprisinging circumstances was able to pick it up for my next read after spending weeks backpacking in Thailand and about to embrak on Mekong River to cross the border. It would take 2 days, confined on the floor of the long tail boat, to get to Luang Prabang. With 50 people on the boat with me and with serene, still untouched nature around me, I was reading away, connecting with people and feeling strong desire to twirle and spirit dance. Many things, such as a beautiful festival in the desert in Nevada, Burning Man, led me to think about this particular dancing, and then again life threw curve balls and here I am reading about it. That search for your true self, those signs, they all do mean something. If you pay attention to them, they will bring you "home". They did bring me after my trip to new city, New York, where I discovered Gabrielle Roth and 5rhythms dancing. Gabrielle's philosophy embodies all the themes Paul you describe in your book. Thank you for inspirting and bringing your readers to think about their inner self, about their true quest. I have found mine and dancing my wild dancing. Looking forward to more interesting books. I think one of your books should explore the topic of shamantic healing. "Movement is the movement of change. In my experience, if you put your psyche in motion it will heal itself. Movement is the medicine. Each of us has the power and responsibility to heal ourselves, to be our own medicine man or woman. Awakening our innate powers of being, loving, knowing, seeing and healing involves ongoing work at all levels and in all dimensions of our self. In your deepest center, you are the stillpoint. You are the rhythm beyond stillness, the feeling beyond compassion, the sexual energy beyond celibacy, the life force beyond death, the vibration beyond inspiration. The moving center is within you." - Gabrielle Roth There are those few moments and few books in our lives that make a profound difference. Sometimes it has to with our own rhythm of life and where it brings you, or how that particular idea or thought collides beautifully in a reality of our dream that’s our life. Witch of Portobella is that book. I’ve been travelling in South East Asia and in suprisinging circumstances was able to pick it up for my next read after spending weeks backpacking in Thailand and about to embrak on Mekong River to cross the border. It would take 2 days, confined on the floor of the long tail boat, to get to Luang Prabang. With 50 people on the boat with me and with serene, still untouched nature around me, I was reading away, connecting with people and feeling strong desire to twirle and spirit dance. Many things, such as a beautiful festival in the desert in Nevada, Burning Man, led me to think about this particular dancing, and then again life threw curve balls and here I am reading about it. That search for your true self, those signs, they all do mean something. If you pay attention to them, they will bring you “home”. They did bring me after my trip to new city, New York, where I discovered Gabrielle Roth and 5rhythms dancing. Gabrielle’s philosophy embodies all the themes Paul you describe in your book. Thank you for inspirting and bringing your readers to think about their inner self, about their true quest. I have found mine and dancing my wild dancing. Looking forward to more interesting books. I think one of your books should explore the topic of shamantic healing.
“Movement is the movement of change. In my experience, if you put your psyche in motion it will heal itself. Movement is the medicine. Each of us has the power and responsibility to heal ourselves, to be our own medicine man or woman. Awakening our innate powers of being, loving, knowing, seeing and healing involves ongoing work at all levels and in all dimensions of our self. In your deepest center, you are the stillpoint. You are the rhythm beyond stillness, the feeling beyond compassion, the sexual energy beyond celibacy, the life force beyond death, the vibration beyond inspiration. The moving center is within you.” – Gabrielle Roth

]]> By: katie http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-566432 katie Thu, 08 Jul 2010 10:34:56 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-566432 this book is very good, but on interesting levels. - its pace, like a piece of music. the interviews have their own rhythm that changes and gets faster at the moment when the newspaper article occurs. - I do not like athena, I do not care about the end of the "love" story. the whole book has those "camera shots" that initiate a lot of memories and just keep working inside of me: the space between the letters, the dance, athena not thinking sufficiently ahead about consequences, little sayings that just come down on the reader one after the other, picture after picture. I like it that you present a witch in such a way. and indeed, athena has a strong feminine side. respect to a male author who can present this in a book and does not mix it with his own masculine energy. it must be tough. this book is very good, but on interesting levels.
- its pace, like a piece of music. the interviews have their own rhythm that changes and gets faster at the moment when the newspaper article occurs.
- I do not like athena, I do not care about the end of the “love” story. the whole book has those “camera shots” that initiate a lot of memories and just keep working inside of me: the space between the letters, the dance, athena not thinking sufficiently ahead about consequences, little sayings that just come down on the reader one after the other, picture after picture.

I like it that you present a witch in such a way. and indeed, athena has a strong feminine side. respect to a male author who can present this in a book and does not mix it with his own masculine energy. it must be tough.

]]> By: jamie http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-566424 jamie Thu, 08 Jul 2010 08:24:33 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-566424 This book has rekindled the spirit of escape within that i have been trying to suppress! This book has rekindled the spirit of escape within that i have been trying to suppress!

]]> By: Office Chick http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-564478 Office Chick Fri, 25 Jun 2010 21:23:49 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-564478 Good Afternoon Paulo! I have read many of your books now and feel so inspired when I do. The two that have affected me the most were Brida and The Witch of Portobello. I felt very good while reading them. I was raised in a Christian family and attended an Episcopal church throughout high school. I never quite felt impassioned through church because of the rigid ness of it all. Although I have never been able to not believe God, I have also questioned why each church always felt that their way was the right way. This lead me to believe in God under my terms - be kind and loving and respectful of people and nature and God will be pleased. In your books, you speak of the Tradition, which through internet research seems to be Wicaa. You also write of God through a Christian standpoint - or I guess more specifically a Catholic standpoint. I guess my question is, how much of your writing is actually nonfiction when it comes to religion? In "By the river Piedra I sat down and wept" You write of the Catholic church being influenced to accept that the Virgin Mary was a manifestation of the Mother Goddess. I am apparently at a point in my life that I am looking for a place to belong when it comes to religion. As I said, I was much affected when reading Brida and The Witch of Portobello, but I also like the idea that Christianity is just partially wrong - that its not as black and white as they like to put it. I would appreciate a response, you are the first "famous" person I have ever written to. But you are also the first person who has ever written anything that moved me so much! I will also post this on the Brida and Witch of Portobello discussion pages as some of your other readers may be of assistance to me as well! Thanks! Jenn Good Afternoon Paulo!

I have read many of your books now and feel so inspired when I do. The two that have affected me the most were Brida and The Witch of Portobello. I felt very good while reading them.

I was raised in a Christian family and attended an Episcopal church throughout high school. I never quite felt impassioned through church because of the rigid ness of it all. Although I have never been able to not believe God, I have also questioned why each church always felt that their way was the right way. This lead me to believe in God under my terms – be kind and loving and respectful of people and nature and God will be pleased.

In your books, you speak of the Tradition, which through internet research seems to be Wicaa. You also write of God through a Christian standpoint – or I guess more specifically a Catholic standpoint.

I guess my question is, how much of your writing is actually nonfiction when it comes to religion? In “By the river Piedra I sat down and wept” You write of the Catholic church being influenced to accept that the Virgin Mary was a manifestation of the Mother Goddess.

I am apparently at a point in my life that I am looking for a place to belong when it comes to religion. As I said, I was much affected when reading Brida and The Witch of Portobello, but I also like the idea that Christianity is just partially wrong – that its not as black and white as they like to put it.

I would appreciate a response, you are the first “famous” person I have ever written to. But you are also the first person who has ever written anything that moved me so much! I will also post this on the Brida and Witch of Portobello discussion pages as some of your other readers may be of assistance to me as well!

Thanks!
Jenn

]]> By: amy pelenio http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-559934 amy pelenio Sun, 23 May 2010 20:36:31 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-559934 im looking forward in reading this book.... im looking forward in reading this book….

]]> By: strip http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-554174 strip Fri, 23 Apr 2010 18:44:12 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-554174 so grate i love it so grate i love it

]]> By: paula http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-551531 paula Sun, 04 Apr 2010 13:39:40 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-551531 one of the best books i`ve eve ead.it`s really good.atena is a pesonality and i`ve learnd from her..i liked the ideea that you learn teaching others one of the best books i`ve eve ead.it`s really good.atena is a pesonality and i`ve learnd from her..i liked the ideea that you learn teaching others

]]> By: Aiman http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-550602 Aiman Sat, 27 Mar 2010 14:05:16 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-550602 I just finished reading this book today and i actually thought it was really good-but of course their were some complications in my understanding. Athena was adopted,her mother has abandoned her?but who was her father because Athena's mother has mentioned for certain reasons she can't explain.why is that so? I just finished reading this book today and i actually thought it was really good-but of course their were some complications in my understanding.
Athena was adopted,her mother has abandoned her?but who was her father because Athena’s mother has mentioned for certain reasons she can’t explain.why is that so?

]]> By: Mykee of Philippines http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-550573 Mykee of Philippines Sat, 27 Mar 2010 06:55:29 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-550573 When you grow as a reader you know when a book calls upon you. I dont know if other readers have that inner instinct but I think I do. "The Witch Of Portobello" called upon me two years ago, I ignored it, maybe I wasnt ready and I just finished reading it today. I am glad I waited for two years to read its pages since I wont be mature enough then if I picked it up. I wont be able to at least decipher the stories essence. Today it left me with piognant thoughts and feelings and a questions lingers...... "Why am I here?" Thank you Mr.Coelho for igniting readers with deep thoughts. Thank you for giving us the chance to ponder on life & love. To go deep in our thoughts and feelings and just ask.....WHY? It might sound cliche but I believe that I am lucky to have read this powerful novel....and I pray that it will shape many lives of readers as I believe it will mine. My quest for knowing myself even better and growing spiritually continues greatful for authors like you who dont stop to inspire everyone. Mykee of Philipiines :) When you grow as a reader you know when a book calls upon you. I dont know if other readers have that inner instinct but I think I do. “The Witch Of Portobello” called upon me two years ago, I ignored it, maybe I wasnt ready and I just finished reading it today.

I am glad I waited for two years to read its pages since I wont be mature enough then if I picked it up. I wont be able to at least decipher the stories essence. Today it left me with piognant thoughts and feelings and a questions lingers……

“Why am I here?”

Thank you Mr.Coelho for igniting readers with deep thoughts. Thank you for giving us the chance to ponder on life & love. To go deep in our thoughts and feelings and just ask…..WHY?

It might sound cliche but I believe that I am lucky to have read this powerful novel….and I pray that it will shape many lives of readers as I believe it will mine.

My quest for knowing myself even better and growing spiritually continues greatful for authors like you who dont stop to inspire everyone.

Mykee of Philipiines :)

]]> By: Shamlee http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-549866 Shamlee Sat, 20 Mar 2010 06:50:16 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-549866 I finished reading the witch of portobello and i loved it! thanks for creating such beautiful masterpieces. I realised something by reading the witch of portobello, i belive that happiness is long term while joy is instantaneous, and living for the moment is really important.. thanks a lot. I finished reading the witch of portobello and i loved it! thanks for creating such beautiful masterpieces. I realised something by reading the witch of portobello, i belive that happiness is long term while joy is instantaneous, and living for the moment is really important.. thanks a lot.

]]> By: sirjan sapkota http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-544360 sirjan sapkota Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:05:18 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-544360 Coelho is simply a perfectionist in terms of reading through mind of every individual, I believe, so could have this sort of art be created. 'The Eleven Minutes' put me into thoughts that how many in the world would have been happily married and how many were sharing??? While this world is losing the love it deserves someone like coelho needs to show up in other to make people realised what actually love and care means.... Coelho is simply a perfectionist in terms of reading through mind of every individual, I believe, so could have this sort of art be created. ‘The Eleven Minutes’ put me into thoughts that how many in the world would have been happily married and how many were sharing??? While this world is losing the love it deserves someone like coelho needs to show up in other to make people realised what actually love and care means….

]]> By: Radiant Energy http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-542637 Radiant Energy Tue, 02 Feb 2010 23:28:35 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-542637 01 Feb 2010 ~ For the first time, the book spoke to me, Paulo spoke to me, the witch spoke to me. I had to read 2.3.8. pages, numerous words, countless sentences, even reread some paragraphs, but finally, the spirit of the book spoke to me. I had reached a point where while reading, I had started imagining where on my bookshelf I would place the paperback - in the cherished 'keep' section, or with the 'free to give away' section, particularly since the number of pages left to read are stacked thin enough in my right hand for me to feel the warmth of my fingers through the last pages with my thumb. The witch, Athena, was being tested. She returned to her teacher, I imagine in an effort to escape from the battle ground so commonly referred to as the 'real world', seeking guidance, protection perhaps - all those things she would eventually have to pull out of herself. It spoke to me - this scene. Where is my safe haven? Where do I go to quiet the mind? p.237-238 'When the flames had burned down, I took a little ash and sprinkled it on Athena's head. Then with my feet I erased the circle I'd drawn around her. "Thank you," she said. "I felt very LOVED, WANTED, PROTECTED." "In difficult moments, remember that feeling." "Now that I've found my path, there will be no more difficult moments. After all, I have a mission to fulfill, don't I?" "Yes, we all have a mission to fulfill." She started to feel uncertain. "And what about the difficult moments?" she asked. "That isn't an intelligent thing to ask. Remember what you said just now: you are LOVED, WANTED, PROTECTED." "I'll do my best." Her eyes filled with tears. Athena had understood my answer."' Ahh...how I relate to Athena's desire to seek assurance that after surrendering to one's life's mission, the difficulties stop challenging us. You can be sure that you've just crossed to the other side of the most challenging battle you'll ever have to face, and even before you seek out water to quench your parched mouth and replenish your feeble core, you want to know that the worst is behind you, that there is no longer a need to survive through another test because 'whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger' no longer applies. You want to be assured that you no longer have to become stronger. You have arrived at your destination. You want to know that you can move forward without needing to climb anymore. No more climbing, no more scraped knees, no more running from fears, scrambling for shelter when the outside conditions become too harsh. You just want to know that you've faced the worst, and that just for surviving, you've won peace of mind, peace of body, peace of soul. But, I'm starting to see that I've only just begun lighting a flame to my kindling. 01 Feb 2010 ~

For the first time, the book spoke to me, Paulo spoke to me, the witch spoke to me. I had to read 2.3.8. pages, numerous words, countless sentences, even reread some paragraphs, but finally, the spirit of the book spoke to me. I had reached a point where while reading, I had started imagining where on my bookshelf I would place the paperback – in the cherished ‘keep’ section, or with the ‘free to give away’ section, particularly since the number of pages left to read are stacked thin enough in my right hand for me to feel the warmth of my fingers through the last pages with my thumb.

The witch, Athena, was being tested. She returned to her teacher, I imagine in an effort to escape from the battle ground so commonly referred to as the ‘real world’, seeking guidance, protection perhaps – all those things she would eventually have to pull out of herself. It spoke to me – this scene. Where is my safe haven? Where do I go to quiet the mind?

p.237-238
‘When the flames had burned down, I took a little ash and sprinkled it on Athena’s head. Then with my feet I erased the circle I’d drawn around her.
“Thank you,” she said. “I felt very LOVED, WANTED, PROTECTED.”
“In difficult moments, remember that feeling.”
“Now that I’ve found my path, there will be no more difficult moments. After all, I have a mission to fulfill, don’t I?”
“Yes, we all have a mission to fulfill.”
She started to feel uncertain.
“And what about the difficult moments?” she asked.
“That isn’t an intelligent thing to ask. Remember what you said just now: you are LOVED, WANTED, PROTECTED.”
“I’ll do my best.”
Her eyes filled with tears. Athena had understood my answer.”‘

Ahh…how I relate to Athena’s desire to seek assurance that after surrendering to one’s life’s mission, the difficulties stop challenging us. You can be sure that you’ve just crossed to the other side of the most challenging battle you’ll ever have to face, and even before you seek out water to quench your parched mouth and replenish your feeble core, you want to know that the worst is behind you, that there is no longer a need to survive through another test because ‘whatever doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger’ no longer applies. You want to be assured that you no longer have to become stronger. You have arrived at your destination. You want to know that you can move forward without needing to climb anymore. No more climbing, no more scraped knees, no more running from fears, scrambling for shelter when the outside conditions become too harsh. You just want to know that you’ve faced the worst, and that just for surviving, you’ve won peace of mind, peace of body, peace of soul.

But, I’m starting to see that I’ve only just begun lighting a flame to my kindling.

]]> By: Navid http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516692 Navid Sat, 28 Nov 2009 01:35:46 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516692 It might be a funny question but do you think Heron Ryan killed her eventually? my question is not exactly related to the story meaning it's just my quriosity!!!!!!!!!! It might be a funny question but do you think Heron Ryan killed her eventually?
my question is not exactly related to the story meaning it’s just my quriosity!!!!!!!!!!

]]> By: Hayes http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516691 Hayes Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:12:01 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516691 Success is not the result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire. Success is not the result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire.

]]> By: Pramod http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516690 Pramod Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:48:47 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516690 WOP is a superb book. Loved reading it till the end. Bit disappointed the way it ended for the once courageous Athena hiding behind a corpse so that the world wont trouble or misunderstand her was, I felt not how a real Athena would probably react. Paulo, You have a wonderful gift given by God (Goddess) and the way the almighty manifests Himself in you leaves anyone who comes in contact with you, even remotely (like me), blessed. More than the story, your words inspire wisdom and confidence in me and in my plan to read all your works, I lay down The Witch of Portobello in my library, planning to read it again... WOP is a superb book. Loved reading it till the end. Bit disappointed the way it ended for the once courageous Athena hiding behind a corpse so that the world wont trouble or misunderstand her was, I felt not how a real Athena would probably react.
Paulo, You have a wonderful gift given by God (Goddess) and the way the almighty manifests Himself in you leaves anyone who comes in contact with you, even remotely (like me), blessed.
More than the story, your words inspire wisdom and confidence in me and in my plan to read all your works, I lay down The Witch of Portobello in my library, planning to read it again…

]]> By: Julia http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516689 Julia Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:54:18 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516689 Hi. This book was given to me about a year ago. I decided to pick it up when going on a trip out to Colorado for a college visit. It felt like magic, like I chose a somewhat magical time to read it and learn more about myself at the perfect time. Still under the house and rules of my parents I find it to keep my world hidden from them. They think I'm crazy for talking to the spirits I see and feel everyday etc...hah who would blame them I guess. Anyways, this book was just another addition/hint that I'm being told that there is an underground movement on the way! I finally have refused to go to the Catholic Church I have been forced to go to since I was in the womb and taking my faith in my own direction. So thank you! You're book taught me thing I can and never would take back. This is the kind of book to read from, not the ones they hand us in school. Once again thank you! You're message will stay with me forever. Hi.
This book was given to me about a year ago. I decided to pick it up when going on a trip out to Colorado for a college visit. It felt like magic, like I chose a somewhat magical time to read it and learn more about myself at the perfect time. Still under the house and rules of my parents I find it to keep my world hidden from them. They think I’m crazy for talking to the spirits I see and feel everyday etc…hah who would blame them I guess. Anyways, this book was just another addition/hint that I’m being told that there is an underground movement on the way! I finally have refused to go to the Catholic Church I have been forced to go to since I was in the womb and taking my faith in my own direction. So thank you! You’re book taught me thing I can and never would take back. This is the kind of book to read from, not the ones they hand us in school. Once again thank you! You’re message will stay with me forever.

]]> By: Yna Legaspi http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516688 Yna Legaspi Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:22:19 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516688 From the book "The Alchemist" here comes another heart and spirit moving book "The Witch Of Portobello". These books teaches and shares different life's structures. This reached my deepest individuality and motivated me to live life at it's best, pleasing before my Creator's Eyes. "Life is too short to waste away." "Life is a journey that we all traveled-in there ain't short ways nor smooth walks alone neither a promise of non-stumbled steps and the goal of reaching the 'Finish Line' is still a mystery for us but one thing is sure; a 'Finish Line' wouldn't feel overwhelming and achieving if you wouldn't bend your neck back and take a peek from your 'Starting Line'."- Yna Legaspi From the book “The Alchemist” here comes another heart and spirit moving book “The Witch Of Portobello”. These books teaches and shares different life’s structures. This reached my deepest individuality and motivated me to live life at it’s best, pleasing before my Creator’s Eyes.

“Life is too short to waste away.”

“Life is a journey that we all traveled-in there ain’t short ways nor smooth walks alone neither a promise of non-stumbled steps and the goal of reaching the ‘Finish Line’ is still a mystery for us but one thing is sure; a ‘Finish Line’ wouldn’t feel overwhelming and achieving if you wouldn’t bend your neck back and take a peek from your ‘Starting Line’.”- Yna Legaspi

]]> By: Meghashyam Chirravoori http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516694 Meghashyam Chirravoori Tue, 27 Oct 2009 05:02:04 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516694 I was too taken up the way heron loved athena. But when athena spoke of love, a hidden part of me emerged and smiled at the heron part of me. Then I realized for a moment that love cannot be possessed, but that s all had been seeking to do all along. May this state last. Thank you of course. :) I was too taken up the way heron loved athena. But when athena spoke of love, a hidden part of me emerged and smiled at the heron part of me. Then I realized for a moment that love cannot be possessed, but that s all had been seeking to do all along.

May this state last.

Thank you of course. :)

]]> By: Meg Holford http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516693 Meg Holford Mon, 24 Aug 2009 23:17:01 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516693 My book club is currently reading WOP. I was immediately struck by the structure, at first not understanding the italics, then realizing the boyfriend from Scotland Yard was real. I will discuss WOP on 9-9-09 if all goes as planned. A sign I just discovered while writing this. I am also following the sign of Eliade's name showing up twice this month for me. I watched the movie, "Youth Without Youth",recently which is based on his book. Then my husband has "The Sacred and The Profane" on his bookshelf for 10 years. So this book really does teach....many things. Thank you. My book club is currently reading WOP. I was immediately struck by the structure, at first not understanding the italics, then realizing the boyfriend from Scotland Yard was real. I will discuss WOP on 9-9-09 if all goes as planned. A sign I just discovered while writing this.
I am also following the sign of Eliade’s name showing up twice this month for me. I watched the movie, “Youth Without Youth”,recently which is based on his book. Then my husband has “The Sacred and The Profane” on his bookshelf for 10 years.
So this book really does teach….many things.
Thank you.

]]> By: neroda http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516687 neroda Wed, 12 Aug 2009 23:35:45 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516687 Dear Mr.Paulo, something strange happened to me before i read this novel ,I was having a hard time understanding this world I'm living in ,we just can't fit together ,and once me and my friend were talking about it and that we may belong to the next century... a year after that i was reading your novel and you just been talking about the same idea literally . any way i red many of your novels i loved them all but this one is way different it's magical it's change the reader mindset just like Athena's dancing . thank you for writing such a book. Dear Mr.Paulo,
something strange happened to me before i read this novel ,I was having a hard time understanding this world
I’m living in ,we just can’t fit together ,and once me and my friend were talking about it and that we may belong to
the next century… a year after that i was reading your novel and you just been talking about the same idea literally .
any way i red many of your novels i loved them all but this one is way different it’s magical it’s change the reader
mindset just like Athena’s dancing .
thank you for writing such a book.

]]> By: Frankie Torrelavega http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516686 Frankie Torrelavega Wed, 05 Aug 2009 17:21:32 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516686 The part of myself that I was once ashamed of, I learned to understand and love and be proud of... this was through the help of this book. The Witch of Portebello served as one of the instruments that made me realize how empowered I am as a woman. The part of myself that I was once ashamed of, I learned to understand and love and be proud of… this was through the help of this book. The Witch of Portebello served as one of the instruments that made me realize how empowered I am as a woman.

]]> By: tana http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-/#comment-516685 tana Tue, 04 Aug 2009 03:41:42 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516685 Go for Brida, You are so going to love that one and Veronica Decides to die. ^_^ Go for Brida, You are so going to love that one and Veronica Decides to die. ^_^

]]> By: Sue http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516684 Sue Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:08:38 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516684 I've nearly finished this amazing book & went on here to find out where I can listen to this music. Please please can someone tell me!! I’ve nearly finished this amazing book & went on here to find out where I can listen to this music. Please please can someone tell me!!

]]> By: Ouarda http://paulocoelhoblog.com/2007/04/19/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/comment-page-13/#comment-516683 Ouarda Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:11:38 +0000 http://en.paulocoelhoblog.com/witch-of-portobello/19.04.2007/readers-corner-for-the-witch-of-portobello/#comment-516683 Hi Paulo First I will say thank you for your very inspiring books. Your book `The Alcymist` is and will for ever be the best book I have ever read – calling it a book is not fair – because the Alchemist is more than just a book – it is magic book which change it’s message for the reader each time its read. The Alchemist has given me; hope, joy and wisdom in times in my life where no light was to find in the dark space I was in. I have also read other of your books and latest I have read `The Witch of Portobello`. It is an inspiring story, even though there is something in the book there leave me unsatisfied. I know that book have had an impact on me (because I have never ever even considered writing to a blog). I finished reading the book yesterday and since then my thoughts keep discussing whether the book “just was a good story” or if there is more into the story. Please do not write that was your intention (to leave the reader with questions) – the Alchemist is a book that I have read several times because it keeps teasing my thoughts, but The Witch of Portobeloo – have an effects on me, as if I have read an unfinished book (I do not wish to offend you – I just want to understand my thoughts about the book). My questions/comments for you: •What will you say to my hypothesis; the story is not about finding meaningfulness by Athenas way of living but let the reader reflect about, how easy it is to let us be seduced by charismatic persons and the our wish to find easy solutions where need others to out our empty spaces between the letter (the space can only be filled out by the individual who have courage, patience and is able to reflect). Athena manage to learn a lot about her self and the spiritual world, but she never learns anything about understanding others or do things for other people unselfishly (everything is about what she needs). I understand that as humans, we can learn and be enlighten by wisdom but that is not any guarantee that we will keep acting differently or realize how we keep the path there have been enlighten to us. Is that what the story is about? Why did she need to make it look as she was killed, that just do not give any meaning for me? Why did her boyfriend need to set the story right by telling her story…? The story will only be read of the group of people who is already open-minded for that world she represents. She would have achieved more by staying and facing the challenges. A boyfriend who is not interested in her spiritual way of living – why would he even consider writing that story about her? Why and how can a person who is trying to understand the meaningfulness in life - be so shallow as Athena– she have no interest in others besides herself and her son? - I truly believe we all have a path individually and collectively, I also believe that our challenge as humans it is about finding a balance between having courage to challenge our self’s/surroundings, be grateful (the most difficult challenge we have as humans), and find meaningfulness of our life’s (as said in the book – joy can be find even when we wash dishes). When you finished writing the book – what was your own instinct by the book? I would be gratefull if you have a comment our two about my thoughts. – I now what I writing is proberly confussing, but I need to write you now before I convince my self, that writing my questions is trivial! I will be looking forward to read more of your books. Best wishes and regards, Ouarda Hi Paulo

First I will say thank you for your very inspiring books. Your book `The Alcymist` is and will for ever be the best book I have ever read – calling it a book is not fair – because the Alchemist is more than just a book – it is magic book which change it’s message for the reader each time its read. The Alchemist has given me; hope, joy and wisdom in times in my life where no light was to find in the dark space I was in.

I have also read other of your books and latest I have read `The Witch of Portobello`. It is an inspiring story, even though there is something in the book there leave me unsatisfied. I know that book have had an impact on me (because I have never ever even considered writing to a blog). I finished reading the book yesterday and since then my thoughts keep discussing whether the book “just was a good story” or if there is more into the story. Please do not write that was your intention (to leave the reader with questions) – the Alchemist is a book that I have read several times because it keeps teasing my thoughts, but The Witch of Portobeloo – have an effects on me, as if I have read an unfinished book (I do not wish to offend you – I just want to understand my thoughts about the book).

My questions/comments for you:
•What will you say to my hypothesis; the story is not about finding meaningfulness by Athenas way of living but let the reader reflect about, how easy it is to let us be seduced by charismatic persons and the our wish to find easy solutions where need others to out our empty spaces between the letter (the space can only be filled out by the individual who have courage, patience and is able to reflect).

Athena manage to learn a lot about her self and the spiritual world, but she never learns anything about understanding others or do things for other people unselfishly (everything is about what she needs). I understand that as humans, we can learn and be enlighten by wisdom but that is not any guarantee that we will keep acting differently or realize how we keep the path there have been enlighten to us. Is that what the story is about?

Why did she need to make it look as she was killed, that just do not give any meaning for me?

Why did her boyfriend need to set the story right by telling her story…? The story will only be read of the group of people who is already open-minded for that world she represents. She would have achieved more by staying and facing the challenges. A boyfriend who is not interested in her spiritual way of living – why would he even consider writing that story about her?

Why and how can a person who is trying to understand the meaningfulness in life – be so shallow as Athena– she have no interest in others besides herself and her son?
- I truly believe we all have a path individually and collectively, I also believe that our challenge as humans it is about finding a balance between having courage to challenge our self’s/surroundings, be grateful (the most difficult challenge we have as humans), and find meaningfulness of our life’s (as said in the book – joy can be find even when we wash dishes).

When you finished writing the book – what was your own instinct by the book?

I would be gratefull if you have a comment our two about my thoughts. – I now what I writing is proberly confussing, but I need to write you now before I convince my self, that writing my questions is trivial!

I will be looking forward to read more of your books.

Best wishes and regards,
Ouarda

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