Kealan sent the link, and I believe it is a very personal and interesting review. He refers to my biography “The warrior’s life” http://bit.ly/19Pqry recently published in English, Spanish (El |Mago) , Portuguese (O Mago) (other languages next year)
I asked myself the question what I would gain from reading the book ‘A Warrior’s Life.’ The book which has just been released in Ireland, written by Fernando Morais depicting the life of Paulo Coelho from his birth up until the 24th of August 2008 (Ironically I wrote to Paulo the very next day as I was tempted to visit him in Lourdes for his birthday – but instead I was personally invited to the next two St. Joseph’s parties both held in Paris).(Note: I always invite 20 readers from my social communities, based on a contest. I will post the rules of the contest later this month)
I bought the book on a cold damp day in November 2009 – which happened to be Friday the 13th. As soon as bought the book I sat in a café and read the first few pages! After coffee and a scone I went home and sat in my bedroom and read until 4am. I got up today at 2.30pm and began to read again until 9pm when I completed reading the last page, this time sitting in the kitchen drinking coffee and having the occasional smoke outside (where I fear a negative presence I stalking the past few days – I must pray more).
What struck me about the book? Why did I read it? Firstly I am a fan; and as you can see from my website/blog I run one of the only Coelho fanfiction websites on the internet at present (which I try to update regularly). Secondly, I came to the conclusion, or more to the point was reminded from reading the bio that I am not a fan! No! No! No! I am a writer embarking on the same struggle to write ‘the book.’
Was I shocked by what was written in this wonderfully accounted history of a man’s life? Yes and no… When I read some of the texts I thought no way – but as I mentally digested the sentences I understood that it was a different point in time in a different country. I though for the most part that it was quiet an interesting life to lead and I am very envious of Coelho’s magnetism with women & of course the fact that he is rich! Coelho’s life for the most part is a romantic tragedy.
The mental illness & looking for due glory – as far as I can analyse these factors have both got their roots embroiled in Paulo’s birth. The man who was born dead; this would have unconsciously effected the growing mind of a child leading to anxiety causing – asthma, panic attacks, OCD and depression/suicide (along with mounting anxiety in later life). The technical term is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Freud states that a neurotic is incapable of enjoying life). Looking for due glory? Coelho expected something from life – he was after all saved from death by St. Joseph – his near death experience may have triggered the idea that he is due something more in life. How do I know this? In 1986 while Paulo Coelho was walking the road of St. James I was three years of age & trapped under a cast iron gate unconscious with a fractured scull and sitting on deaths door. Three days later I woke from a coma as bright as rain. As I grew older my parents told me of the thirty-five Catholic Nuns who prayed to god for three days as I lay in the hospital. Of course I have my own ideas of self greatness and that one day I will have my name in lights! So I can understand the struggle of being esoteric and trying to bring something wonderful for people to read.
The sex was not surprising. All I can say is lucky you! Although I would not advise masturbating into the light!
The drugs – again not surprising & I’m glad that somebody has shared their experience and publicly admits to have nothing more to do with that type of lifestyle.
I was most surprised that the book developed out into Paulo’s intimate relationships. I did not expect to find a chapter relating to his current partner, but in saying that, I was enthralled by Christina’s story… Wow! and the stories of the other women in his life. Another aspect which, and I cringe to use this word again, surprised me, was the extensive diaries Paulo kept; amazing… truly amazing. I feel without the use of these diaries the book would not have had the edge we were all looking for while reading. The personal thoughts and activities kept over the decades.
On a last note – I have been fighting internally my involvement with the paulocoelhoblog for sometime now. In an ever expanding cynical world, I as a writer, as a fan/fanfictionalist, as somebody participating – do not want to be seen as said in the Winner Stands Alone ‘a jaded hanger on.’ I do not want to covet anything – I have learned, laughed, cried, participated and met. Before I became involved in the blog I had my own esoteric experiences in life, like may others, but the hands of time guided me towards this light – and what a wonderful light. Now as I see myself at 27 years old, no present friends or relationships, financially ruined and living at home in my parent’s house – I am suffering to fill a void which I can only fill myself…through writing.
P.S. Fernando; if you ever read this – thank you for a wonderfully gripping book. I enjoyed your style of writing & you are a great story teller. I did not loose interest once!
JUST TO CLARIFY: a] I don’t earn rights from this book. b] Fernando Morais took 5 years to write it, and he used my personal files c] by mutual agreement, I only read the book when it was published in Portuguese d] I must confess that I was a little shocked with my life, but I survived
Hello!! I wrote a review for my column on the website ‘How To Tell a Great Story’ and wanted to share it here as well.
Love!
The Story of a Great Storyteller
457 pages, written by yet another great storyteller Fernando Morais, is the biography of storytelling phenomenon none other than the Magical and Mystical Paulo Coelho. Released last month, “A Warrior’s Life” is the authorized biography which took Fernando Morais three years to complete. And what an amazing three years those must have been for Fernando who spent six weeks at Paulo’s side, eight months in Rio de Jenairo, the birthplace of Paulo Coelho, walking through his footsteps, and the rest digging into a treasure chest full of Paulo Coelho’s written and recorded diaries spanning forty years of his intimate life. I can just imagine how exciting it must have been for Fernando, like a kid opening presents on Christmas. Needless to say, this is exactly how I felt reading “A Warrior’s Life” in which I broke my own record, reading 457 pages in less than two days.
Paulo Coelho was born dead and lived to experience his first miracle within a miracle. Many more miracles follow in the life of Paulo and his story is intriguing and amazing to say the least. The biography tells detailed accounts from his childhood, the Jesuit schooling, his first and subsequent loves, the mental institutions, electric shock treatments, to sex drugs and rock and roll, to his days as songwriter, the secret and alternative societies, the arrests and tortures, the return of his faith in Catholicism all the way to selling 100,000,000 copies of his books. Reading his story I see more than one lifetime worth of experiences and achievements. Coyly I confess my favorite parts were reading excerpts of his diaries. I especially enjoyed reading his thoughts from his childhood, such a sweet intelligent young man and a talented writer he was, and what a strong will and determination and passion he has. He is dynamite, in a perpetual love affair with life.
A lot of people may find many things shocking about Paulo’s life, the sex life, the secret societies or his behavior at times. What was most shocking to me was the reaction of the critics. How do we tell a great story? Are there criteria we must follow in order to make a story great? What rules and regulations do we need to adhere to, to tell a great story or to satisfy the critics? What might be a great story for you might not be the least interesting for me, true enough, as many people as there are that many opinions exist. But when a book sells millions and millions of copies, there exists a consensus that yes, it is a Great story. Even with the worldwide success Paulo has had, and having graced the bestseller lists throughout the world, the critics still refused to accept a simple fact, and even went as far as insulting his millions of readers… wow, such bitterness and jealousy. To top off the ridiculousness of the situation, one even stated he has not read his books and does not like them, hm… case closed.
If you have not read any of Paulo’s books, I recommend starting with ‘The Alchemist,’ take an amazing journey with Santiago and discover the magic and the many treasures hiding in and between the lines. ‘The Alchemist’ is a modern classic and of course you are free to form your own opinion, but please, do read it before stating one. If you have read Paulo Coelho’s stories or not, you don’t want to miss the juicy details in the biography of one of the Greatest storytellers of our time. “A Warrior’s Life” depicts the life of, as Fernando Morais says, an “extraordinary individual.”
A Warrior’s Life arrived in the post on Saturday morning. These are my initial thoughts.
http://keithpp.wordpress.com/2009/11/30/a-warriors-life-by-fernando-marais/
I will now resist all temptation, put it to one side and look forward to reading it over Christmas.
A Warrior’s Life is an absolute must for Paulo Coelho fans. But I would also recommend it to others who may never have read his books or maybe never even heard of Paulo Coelho, as it is a fascinating read and very well written.
To date the only biography has been, Paulo Coelho: Confessions of a Pilgrim, a series of informal conversations with Juan Arias, which I also recommend.
Thanks Paulo!
I was really looking forward to this book! Mr. Coelho’s work and thoughts projected through his books has been such an inspiration to me and my life. Therefore I wanted to read the biografy.
The biografy to me seems so much involved in describing darkness, and leaves the impression of a person who uses others for his own benefit, who doesn’t treat women very well and a person who would put his name on a book that he hasn’t even written, without acknowledging the real author. It’s to the extent that I can’t see where the light in Mr. Coelho’s work has come from. It’s like I don’t even recognize that the person who wrote these books can be the very same person that the biografy describes.
I agree with you. There are some parts where you can picture the Paulo I know from his books, but they are the least. Too much darkness and little light. The writer wanted to be unbiased and ended up picturing a person I don’t recognize. However,I feel Paulo’s books are the visible part of his soul: a lot of light achieved through a lot of darkness.
dear kealan,
today you said something that resonates every time within me when i come to this tworld.
There are so many who talk and converse regularly that i feel were i to join them i would be bracketed as a ‘jaded hanger on’
i console myself saying if i really like someone i dont need to tell the world about it…i can keep it within me ..look at it from time to time and feel happy about it………..
and dont feel bad abt financial ruin…i am from india …right now in this stage of my life i have 2 option get married to a rich , well settled guy…or be a outcasted by the family.personally i am taking steps to do everything to get away from this and in the process alienating myself from those who mattered once so much……..
personally, i feel that can be avoided when you feel like you have achieved something……
oops, the last line had to come after the 2nd paragraph………:)
Dear debi…
Thank you for your kind words. I know that India can be a difficult place to live both socially and with the war raging on your door step. We all have opinions to share and at least this is a place/blog where we can interact with the world and share ideas with like minded people. Maybe if you pray you will find love & that person may also be rich!
kealan,
well , honestly i dont want to get married to rich or otherwise…i like my company…a lot…. and am of the belief that marriage is too far a give and take instituition for my liking…
but thanks for your wishes….you are bang on when you said about the prayer….its the only time i feel confident to take on anything
Well you are right! I do not wish to get married at present either & am quiet happy living the way I am for now with no pressures!
Kealan, I think this what the americans call a double whammy… I’m so pleased for you that both the author and the protagonist found it important to ackowledge your work… now take the ball and score a touchdown…
Sincerely, Paul
Thanks Paul. I am very proud to have been blessed with a double whammy! It’s something to tell the grandchildren about when I’m an old man… it has been a great year so far… To be quiet honest this blog has helped me so much these past three and a half years. I really do not know where I would be without it – yes I know I need to socialise more!
See you in Vienna… in March 2010?
I did not receive total conformation yet that I will be invited – but they have my application in! We have to go for a coffee – beer – Glühwein – dinner – or all four (not in that particular order!) if am there in March. Regards… K
Nice words Kealan and thank you, for introducing yourself and dreams together with your impressions on Paulo Coelho’s Biography by the author Fernando Morais: A warrior’s life, O MAGO and in Greek the title has not yet been decided! I could not wait for the … title to be .. decided, so I ordered the book from a bookshop that they undertake to order for us any book in English! I was the .. first to ask about this book and I am sure many will follow! I am looking forward to reading it and ‘re-live’ your life, dearest Paulo Coelho, through the pages of it.. What you ARE now is the … result of all your previous ..lives [??] and experiences. You have passed all the ELEMENTS and through ALCHEMY found the Gold, The LIGHT in you. The Butterfly’s flight. Thank you for being there.
Much LOVE,
Thelma xxx
I always tip off the bookshop when I order the new books!!!! I asked about this book six months ago ha!
I asked about this book in the most famous London bookshop two years ago and after searching for an hour in their computer they informed me that they did not have it!!! I am sure they were thinking that I was mad! Now they may think I was a … medium, a … Witch searching for ‘O MAGO’!!!!
LOVE,
Thelma xxx
The Witch of Cyprus – I knew it dear Thelma!
Beware of … Witches, dear Kealan!! ;-]
But the only sign that I have being a … witch is a … black and white cat that I used to have!! Her name was … Maria /Maroulla, like my mother’s name and she was very clever and playful, even .. talking to me! When she was going to have her first baby she came up the stairs to our apartment and she was crying outside the door.. When I opened her I saw that she was in pain and bleeding.. So I took my keys and ran downstairs.. and there in front of me she gave birth to her baby! Oh she was so proud !! Next day she took it and came up with him in … her mouth. She put him on the carpet and stepped back looking into my eyes to show how proud she was of him!!!..
But I prefer the title …. ‘Mama’; at least I am not in danger to be … burnt to the stake or to be .. tied up on a chair and be drowned into the river in order to …be proved that I am a ..witch!![ Maybe this is the reason I am afraid of the ... water!!] This story was told to us by our guide last Summer in Scotland!
LOVE,
Thelma xxx
Yes there were many ways of killing innocent women in the past… how terrible… Your story about the cat is quiet sweet :)
Kealan!
Hi :o)
Am so glad the book is finally out here….I must pop down to (probably the same) bookshop and get a copy.
Thankyou for sharing your thoughts.
I totally relate to what you described as your motivations for wanting to read Paulo’s life-story….we learn from our own stories but also those of the people around us…and people we admire…most definitely.
I concur completely with your distain of the idea that that might give the appearance of a ‘a jaded hanger on’…I think that there is nothing as beautiful as the feeling of being close to and around other souls who resonate to the same frequency…and I am not ashamed of persuing that. Life is for living.
I have so much respect for Paulo’s work and his clear, ever-curious and courageous heart.
Anyway..thanks for your words, Kealan….
Next time you’re over this side of the island, mail me and we’ll share a glass of wine or 2 again.
And say Hi to your beautiful Mum
:o)
ps…Paulo….it is only HALF of your life story….there is plenty more to come!
Much love from Dublin,
Fi
Hay Fi,
Thanks for your reply! It’s true – it is a nice thing to be around people on the same vibration – it is what life is all about. I would love to go for a wine someday but alas I can hardly afford to put €10 of petrol into my little jeep and the country is flooded! Can’t drive west to east; Ha! I’ll send you some psychic words through the clouds! But the next time I’m in Dub I will let you know or if you’re in Galway give me a holler. We just had a crack of lightning directly over the house… amazing. Breda says “hello.”
PRAYER OF TRUST TO SAINT JOSEPH
IN MOMENTS OF ANGUISH AND HARDSHIP.
Blessed Saint Joseph,
your intercession can make possible impossible things
come to help me in these moments of anguish and hardship.
Take under your protection
the difficult and grave situations I commend to you,
so they have a happy solution according to God’s will.
My beloved father:
I trust you entirely
and abandon myself as a small child
sleeping in his dad’s arms.
That could not be said I appealed to you in vain.
And as you, through the Lord,
can everything accomplish in front of Jesus and Mary,
show me your kindness is as greater as your power.
Amen.
Beautiful!
Thanks for sharing.
May all your skies be blue ones
May all your dreams be seen,
May all your friends be true ones
And all your joys complete
May happines and laughter
Fill all your days for you
Today and ever after
May all your dreams come true.
Hello Kealan, hello friends,
I was so thrilled with the review of the Kealan’s review and the nice words you wrote about my book “The Warrior’s Life”.
Like many of you have not yet read the book, here are the translations that have already been published and that will leave in coming months.
• Brazil, Portugal and former Portuguese colonies in Africa: “O Mago” – Editora Planeta.
• Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, Venezuela, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Argentina and Uruguay: “El Mago” – Planeta Internacional
• United States of America: “El Mago” in Spanish – Rayo
• Czech Republic: “Mag’ – Argo
• Hungary: “A Mágus” – Atheneaum
From now on, the book comes out in the following countries
17, November 2009 (today!!!)
• United States, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand: “The Warrior’s Life” – HarperCollins.
• Poland: “Kzarodziej” – Drzewo Babel
December 2009
• Bulgaria: Title to be defined – Obsidian
• Russia: Title to be defined – Ast
• India: “The Warrior’s Life” – HarperCollins
January 2010
Greece: Title to be defined – Livani
During the year 2010 the book will be published also in
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Holland
• Italy
• Lithuania
• Norway
• Romania
• Switzerland
• South Korea
• Turkey
The book can be found at http://www.amazon.com
If anyone wants more information can go to the site http://www.fernandomorais.com.br/omago
Big hug from
Fernando Morais
Enhorabuena Fernando Morais por tan tremenda Azaña, leido el libro y he quedado impresionada no puedo pensar que toda esta documentación quedara esfumada en una quema que pareciría que otra vez volvemos a la quema de brujas. Estoy encantada de que todo la venta a luz ya decir verdad con ventilador de Paulo Coelho, me gustaría que se hiciera una película de la vida y que mejor que tomar como referencia sus libros.
“Por sus hechos los reconocereis” y Paulo Coelho tiene una trayectoria estupenda en su carrera viendo que ha Hecho Tanto Bien
con su libro El Alquimista, he oido muchas veces: “Tio El Alquimista cambió mi vida” que no dejo de pensar en lo revolucionario que es este hombre.
Un beso Fernando y gracias por averiguar quien fue el que torturó a Paulo Coelho.
Dear Fernando!
Thank you so much for your kind words. I would have gone into more detail about your book and would have given a more wholesome analysis if I were obliged the privilege in a lecture hall; if that makes some sense. I feel that you justified Paulo Coelho’s life with your words – but I also feel that you fell in love with his character as you read through his diaries and spent time with the man himself; given the time and energy there are probably 1000 more stories which could have been told > for example the young business woman who had to tend to different clients.
WOW what a life!
More back to the book review! It was a wonderfully accounted and written piece of literature; wonderfully honest and wonderfully interesting! I do have to hold my tongue now as I did in the original review above as I do know Paulo is a private family man and that some matters will never be revealed to the general public, or even you, him or me.
If I were to open your book at any page I would find something written with care and attention – to the smallest detail. As a reader I love to read – but do not get the opportunity to read as much because I hate bad literature. For example I hate tabloids.
If ever there is an anthology being written; I will offer my skills for free!
When I think of your book sometimes I want to laugh out loud; or deep down have a little cry (which as a man I am incapable of!). My only wish is that the descriptions of sex were a little spicier like 11 Minuets & And I am available to act as Rolf if ever it is made into a movie!
I must go now, because as always I haven’t slept in two days and I did not buy enough beer & I have work on a movie set in the morning!
Kindest of regards,
Kealan,
Let me know if you are ever in Connemara, Ireland and I will show you around… There is plenty to write about here. Thank you Fernando for a wonderful book… Paulo thank you for being you and I am glad I did not have to break into your house and steal the legendry locked chest which was due to be cremated.
What a wonderful surprise to see you here. I have finished reading the biography.
I’m left speechless after hours of laughter, sadness, anger, disbelief, awe, and excitement. Wow, what passion Paulo has!
Paulo, you are Dynamite!
Thank you Fernando, you wrote it so well!
Dear Paulo thank you for sharing your life with us. All your stories are magical! You are truly immortal!
In gratitude,
Carolena.
Btw, you didn’t say if you found any children from his previous relationships? Assuming it’s none since you didn’t mention any but you didn’t say!? I have always wondered ever since I first saw his picture!
Love
C.
OK I’m on twitter now as KealanMoore… so I’m new to it twitter so just twitter me! I have already added some stuff if anyone wants to chat
I´m in Twitter too. Wellcome
Jees – I didn’t sleep all night and now all I can think about is OJ, fresh coffee and croissants! I’ll have to move country after I make some money or find a job…
Kealan,
I found myself connecting with your story while reading the review. I don’t have much to say now. I believe most had been said and I will be throwing words in the wind – all that I wish to say, you and Paulo have probably already heard many times.
So stay well on your path and don’t give up on your dream of becoming a writer. I am 26 years old and struggling to take that first step..
Blessings
Marina
Dear Marina… you can say what you wish… because I love to hear each and every one’s voice… If you throw your words to the wind they will be carried across the sea and lands!
“Come to the edge, he said.
They said: We are afraid.
Come to the edge, he said.
They came.
He pushed them
and they flew.”
(I did not write this poem!)
Hi Kealan,
I really enjoyed reading your interesting review on “The warrior’s life.” I now feel that I have to get my hands on a copy, here in Egypt, by ‘hook or by crook’ !!!
All the best,
Theresa
Maybe you can get one on the black market a pirate copy! Just kidding! I’m sure it will be in every book shop b4 Christmas.
I hope to read it soon translated into italian! :))
Hi Paulo and Kealan.
I bought the book this afternoon in Dublin. (They only had a couple of copies left, so it’s obviously selling quickly). Looking forward to starting it tonight.
Hay Siobhan,
I hope the weather is better in Dublin than it is in Galway… Enjoy reading!
Thank you dear Kealan, for the book’s review. I am looking forward to reading the ‘Warrior’s life’ or ‘O MAGO’; in Greek ‘O Μάγος’.
LOVE,
Thelma xxx
Thank you dear Thelma… The book was published in Brazil late last year I think, or very early this year – so we have all been waiting!
Paulo,
As I tell my acting/writing students when not so nice things happen in their lives, “File the experience away in your memory banks, and us it when you need to step into a character’s skin to create him on stage or film, or write him in your play, story, or novel.”
I am feeling that you have delved deep into your memory files (some enlightening, some blackening; and with the help of the Universe, you have been able to not only heal yourself, but bring a beautiful light to this world. You are such an example for all of us to follow. We are not perfect and were not expected to be perfect. Those who do not dare to risk here on this world, will still have to be schooled (tested) until we finally “get it.” You are well on your way. And the greatest thing is that you dare share everything — no holes barred” :-)
Love, warmth, and beautiful light,
Elaine
The life of Paulo Coelho has always inspired me.When I read the book “Paulo Coelho Confessions Of A Pilgrim” by Spanish writer and journalist Juan Arias,I was really in a different state of mind for many days.The chapters like Omens,Private life,The Feminine and Readers were really mesmorising.This book was written in 1998.
Since then,eleven years have been passed and no other biographical book was written on Paulo Coelho.
As I came to know,through this blog,that a new book,’The Warrior’s Life’ has been published which covers the life of one of the influencial writer of the world,I am exicited to read this book.But I want to ask,is this book available in my country Pakistan?
Well I think that I have responded to everyone here who wrote me a note! It is 11.45pm here now and I’m about to turn into a pumpkin again… I enjoyed the discussion and I hope to have many more very soon (like in the video tomorrow). Thank you so much Paulo Coelho for posting this here – I had a wonderful day reading everyone’s comments and replying – and thank you for sharing your life – your beautiful life. I need to go and pray now; it works miracles!
THANK YOU, enjoyed reading your review (perfect timing!!), and many blessings Kealan, Paulo, Fernando.
I need to go and pray now too.
Prayer and being the prayer in motion : )
Much Love to All, Jane : ) xo
Dear Kealan
Thanks for replying to me… I have found the book now… seek and you shall find!
Hope you don’t stay a pumpkin forever, and all the very best for your writing.
Many thanks
Pandora
Ha! It’s hard not to be a pumpkin some days… I feel more like a crab walking sideways today – and no I have not been drinking (and I never do drugs!)
Paulo I was so surprised to find out that you had a biography! I only found out last night, and read the few first pages on Amazon.com. Every time I went from page to page, I would say “Oh please let there be one more”. I understand why Kealan finished it so fast, it is obviously very well written!
And now reading Kealans review, it only made me more interested in reading it.
But I must say, your comments Paulo at the end of the review surprised me the most! Being shocked with your own life..to me that is shocking! :)
Kealan… what a wonderful review!! You are very talented, your fanfiction stories are really good. I’d like to know about your future works, keep me posted!
As for the bio… I CAN’T Wait to read it!!!!!!!!!
I am impatiently waiting for it in the mail!
Your review just heightened the anticipation… Thanks a lot ;)
Hugs and kisses
C.
Well I took some of the stories down so I wouldn’t look like I was trying to promote myself too much. I’m very critical of what I like to read so I am very hard on myself when it comes to writing. I’ll have to publish more stuff in the fanfiction site more often… The book is worth the wait! I thoroughly enjoyed it from cover to cover. I hope LA is treating you well ;)
I’m treating LA very well, thank you!! :)
We are our own worst critics… I know I am sometimes, partly due to a slight obsession with perfection… Ha…
Well, I know perfection doesn’t exists, or the definition of it varies depending on the circumstance, but it’s wanting to do whatever is at hand to the best degree possible. We just have to remember to take it easy… :) Imperfection is also perfection…
PS I will be busy for a while… the mailman JUST dropped off my copy of ‘The Warrior’s Life’
Bye bye :D
Kealan, thank you!(and all others in this blog) And don’t ever give up writing! :)
Thank you for your comment :)
will the book publish in Arabic? i want it so badly !
and i want “The Winner Stands Alone” in Arabic too T.T
The winner stands alone is already in Arabic, in both Syrian, Egyptian and Lebanese editions
Thank you Kealan. And thank you also Paulo for your courage.
I don’t think I’m about to read it. Should we say everything about ourself? It happens I dislike some persons are invading my privacy.
As for the book, I can change my mind.
It seems to be good news.
Paulo: you live in two places here in France, and France is never the first edited. Brida is not in french still now… :)
It is a very private book…
That’s the point…
I know :)
I cannot wait to see the book public in Macedonian. :)
I’m eager to read it!
Love,
Marina
thank you Kealan.I enjoyed reading your review.
You can read the first pages of the book on Amazon.com (in English).
Mental illness is one of the greatest injustice in this world.
Yes mental illness is. That’s why I studied to become a therapist – I want to help people. It makes me sad to think of all the lost souls out there.
Although I have always had difficulty to fully understand this, there is I believe a truth therein… the “helper syndrome” need to help others is, apparently, a sickness in itself… I believe that we should strive for perfection within ourselves… only then can we positively influence others & the world around us… (perhaps as Paulo does?)
Therapists, Nuns, Nurses, Teachers > Freudian Oral Stage
Doctors, Generals, Company Directors > Freudian Anal Stage
Prostitutes, Actors, Singers, Artists > Freudian Genital Stage
But we all swing between these three primary stages of development – until we find the organic self.
http://www.harpercollins.com/books/9780061718885/Paulo_Coelho_A_Warriors_Life/index.aspx
thank you so much
You made my day.
Love and light and beijos.
Mch :)
I congratulate you dear fellow warrior… and of course Breda, your dear mother… never give up… you have great talent… and courage
Love, & slán, Paul
Thanks Paul… I feel like I wrote the Bio now!
Hi Paul, thanks for thinking of me ,
Love from the wildness of Connemara : )
Breda
I am trying to respond to everyone – for like Cinderella – this post will be gone tomorrow. Thank you all for you comments and thank you Paulo for giving me a place to express my own personal opinion. When I wake tomorrow I will probably bury the dream again for another few months – but I did promise myself that I would devote the next six months to writing… which is easy because I’m not working… I will pop back later and reply to those who comment later in the night.
PS I sent this post to the leading broadsheet in Ireland – although I do not expect to hear back! What can I do! I don’t like tabloids so this is as far as it will go. (Maybe I should get a stamp… man!).
Dear Kealan,
Please DO NOT bury the dream. Keep on fighting for what you want and if you pursue, somewhere you will find an opening to achieve what you desire.
My daughter suffered terribly at school due to bullies. She immersed herself in writing from the age of 14. She is now 16 and has spent the last two years creating the characters and storyline and vast array of events that will be used to create a series of books. This year she has taken the ‘less trodden path’ which is to concentrate now on getting the first book finished and published. All of her friends have gone on to college and they and most of our family and friends think it is an odd decision that she hasn’t followed on with her schooling. They of course do not see the talent and dedication she has.
Only you can make it happen and I am a strong believer that ‘If you really want something, all the universe will conspire in helping you to achieve it’ as Paulo says. Please, do not give up, your writing is what is helping you through and let it be the thing that leads you to greater happiness!
Alex
I will never give up! That is one of the reasons I loved this Bio so much… I will make it someday, I think that is the gift at the end of the raod.
I think trying to forget about the dream of writing is so easy!
At least for me, it happens without me noticing it. Every few months it comes back, reminding me of something that I really want to do. Or actually know that I have to do.
Anyway dear Kealan, make the most of the time you have now, and yes of course anyone who starts on their path will make it eventually :)
Good luck <3
The most difficult step is the first!
I want to read this book, and reading such reviews make me want to read it even more.
After reading this, I am thinking of how sometimes we feel alone in life, going through several experiences, specially the not-so-pleasant ones. But when you become aware that almost everybody else goes through similar deeds or most of the times, even worse, somehow, inside the heart, you know you have a SPECIAL COMMUNION with this sector of humanity, even when your paths might never cross physically.
I am a fan of bios for that reason, and very surely will become a bigger fan of Paulo’s after I have the chance to EXPERIENCE THAT COMMUNION, generated by knowledge.
Thanks for sharing,
July Badillo
Hi Paulo,is ‘A Warriors Life’ available in Spain /in English language..my daughter lives there…: )
Love Breda
I believe so, otherwise you can order from Amazon.
Hi Kealan , the pull of temptation was too strong and I read your insightful review!!(I am in the middle of reading ‘A Warriors life’ and I am pleased your review has in no way interfeared with the story I am reading).
I admire your honesty Kealan on the deep personal reflections this book brought up for you and your crystal clear goals for the present and future.
love always
Breda
Thanks Mom! Put the kettle on for a coffee there!
Kealan
interesting review! And keep on writing. Maybe we should start an online creative writing group on here (is there one already) or somewhere as your words have just reminded me to keep on writing myself too. Oh, and of course, it has reminded me to buy the biography – not sure how surprised I’m going to be though…I think some of the aspects of Paulo’s character that you mention are fairly apparent from his community postings – he is a real character (I mean that in a good way). I’m also looking forward to reading something about his lovely wife. I wish I had someone like that to look over me too.
I joined a writing group last night online, as I have in the past – but they keep pushing people to self publish on those sights; and the company is one of the biggest publishers in the world! But yes it is a nice idea to have a writing group.
HI Kealan – are you in the UK?
Thank you again for your review – I’ve ordered the biography from Amazon now because of it.
Good luck! Sorry for taking the thread a bit off topic. I could talk all day about this kind of thing and what you say about how you relate to Paulo as a writer really resonates with me, and with many others. This is another reason why your review was so great, as it gets that across beautifully.
(Am on twitter if you want to talk some more – it would be great to hear how you are getting on with the writing)!
Hay Kirsten… I’m living in Ireland in the first few km’s of Connemara… I’m not on twitter but am on facebook… I should set up a twitter since the world is gone twitter mad -
Great review. Of course we will read the book.
Thank you Paulo, for surviving. This is the magic: you are real. What a wonderful thing that you share your life with us.
I am finally arriving at a point in my life, a crossroads…I have decided from now on, to do what I want. Everyday I live this way, this is my goal.
Thanks for being Warrior.
Although I can suppose what you have past through, partly from your books, partly from life, I’m very curious to read it. I have to admit maybe not so much for the details that are described (which I do respect) but for his vision if it is represented. Will it be published in Greece or Serbia and when? Before I read it I would like to know what is your artistic and personal opinion of the book? How did you feel to travel back through lived over, again?
Thanks and be well
Vesna
Kealan!
First of all, I must say I really liked your review of the book. It left you pondering about your own dream and that is wonderful. I only like to read books that leave me somehow unsatisfied, wanting more from life.
You honestly state you’re envious of what society fills men’s mind with: to have a lot of money and a lot of women. Once my former husband told me he was envious of him despite the fact he’s never read a single book by him because Paulo had a lot of admirers. So it seems men share a common dream.
Honestly I did not like the book when I read it , not because of how Paulo lived his life. Before reading it I already knew most of the facts the book develops: his birth, his studying at a Jesuit school, his being put into a mental asylum, his addiction to drugs, his homosexual experience, his involvement in black magic, his vision in Dachau, his turning point walking the road of Saint James, his fancy for women.
I didn’t have any prejudices about those facts. I admire Paulo because he lived his life to the fullest , made many mistakes on the way, but strode to become what he always wanted to be. All of those facts made Paulo the writer I love, so I thank God for what he underwent.
What I mean is the book is almost about facts that important or no to understand the phenomenom he represents, are only facts.
Maybe that is how a bio should be written but the book lacks the intuitive side I would like it to have.
Personally I didn’t learn anything new about Paulo the person after reading it. The book just added some more details to the ones I already knew.
Maybe I’m wrong , but Paulo’s soul is better depicted in most of his characters than in his authorized bio.
Let me know if you agree with me.
Love
Adriana
I totally agree with you as for the lack of descriptions on my spiritual insights. But Fernando is an atheist, and he did his best in facts that he could prove (which is good)
Dearest Paulo!
Thanks for letting me know you agree with me. As to Fernando’s writing I aknowledge he did his best and the book is worth read it.
Lots of love.
Adriana
I got my answer one minute before I sent the question. That is communication. How great :O)))). Thank you both.
God bless you
I didn’t have the possibility to read this book yet, but I think that if he would have known something about psychoanalysis he might have given some other names to those spiritual parts of our soul, and make them appear in one way or an other.(I don’t know if I was able to make clear the idea that I had in my mind.)
Anyway, even that it would be asking too much…;))
Love
Olta
Well this is why I enjoyed the bio… because it was written by Fernando. It was unbiased > it was neither for or ageist. If Paulo had written the book himself I personally would have thought maybe he is only saying that to shock us or to promote his image as a writer/esoteric. I personally feel that Fernando brought new material to the table. Yes we all know about Paulo’s life but there was more in this book than was released before…and that is why I read it.
PS I don’t care much for riches or being rich – only to be comfortable… but if I can live in Tuscany and drive a cool car I would do so… & who said I only want to attract women – joke//
:o)
lol
The book is unbiased and that is excellent.
It brings new material to the table as you say and that is also very good.
The diaries Paulo kept were going to be destroyed and we would have never known what was in them if it not were by the bet Paulo lost to Fernando finding out the name of the person who caused his imprisonment by the military in 1974.
It is only that I read The Confessions of a Pilgrim by Juan Arias, which was also biographical, and Paulo was pictured in a different way there. The facts were similar, but the approach was different. It was a warm-hearted, more inspirational approach. The author tried to unveil Paulo’s spiritual motives.
That’s what I wanted to say from the beginning.
P.S. Kealan feel free to enjoy whatever Universe brings to your life, be it money, women or power. We’re not here to find fault with your desires… :O)
Love and kisses
A.
I’m only trying to stir things up a little! Don’t mind me :)
I don’t mind you,
I just like you :)
“Wishing you always
A bright sky above
The pleasure of doing
The things that you love-
God’s blessing around you,
His light from on high,
And deeper contentment
As each day goes by.”
I will check the book right away on the 17th! I am still in Singapore now. I am thrilled and excited at the same time to get hold of that book! I hope someday, I get to meet you Paulo in person! It would be an honor and a dream come true!
Shocks! Just thinking and writing about that make me teary-eyed! hahaha! :)
muchos gracias!!!
“I must confess that I was a little shocked with my life, but I survived”
That made me smile, Paulo :) But I’m glad you survived and I can imagine that it must be a very strange experience to read a book about oneself, a book about your life.
P.S. I’m really looking forward to the contest for the party and am very excited! :)
Love,
Barbara
I cannot say anuthing about the book as I haven’t read it yet,but I will.But I can tell more about Kealan,cause I know his writings and I remember his little story,when we used to write little stories(that was great)and I know he writes beautifully so..even if he didn’t last long trying to give up smoking ;) but now,knowing your life’s condition at the moment..sure things musn’t be easy.Wish you light Kealan,lot of light.
Sincerely,
Candie
I am accepting all the light people wish to offer me! Thanks Candieb
hummm… nice…i will read that book for sure but…whenever i find it, all by itself like i found the rest of your books.
Hi Kealan,
A great review, revealing just enough to awake the curiosity, without taking away the content of the biography.
A big thank you!
Heart
Well I would have written more, but due to the nature of a lot of the things expressed in the book, I felt it better to hold back a little as I know Paulo never speaks about his personal life much. I have a lot more to say about the book, but I’ll have to wait until more people have read it.
Thanks for the reminder of the new book in stores now ;o)
I shall look forward to reading this biography by Fernando.
As someone who has PTSD, let me say – although it “affects” life in later stages… it by NOOOOOOO means has meant I have become incapable of enjoying life..
Perhaps because the trauma [leading to PTSD] has given an in-depth, extraordinary view on life… I have been part of an audience at a unique, dramatic event… and I learnt from it, but it never stopped me from truelly enjoying.
It made me deep, not superficial etc etc..
so again, perhaps it was the social life that was boring, not the fact i could not fit in due to PTSD that was at fault.
ps. it has made me fight for causes.. because i have known truth intimately. This you could brush aside as argumentative, looking for due glory etc et al..
but you know what it is? pretty simple really…
just a hope for justice for common man.
;o)
Blessings to all.
More people than we realise suffer from PTSD. My comment from Freud was relating to people who cannot live a life common to what is normal! For example a person who’s whole life revolves around OCD; so much so that they cannot hold down a job, have a relationship etc; or one who is so depressed they sit catatonic staring at a wall fourteen hours of the day.
dear Kealen,
yes, my whole family have it…
I’m amazed I got through uni, for the ‘catatonic staring’ ;o)
But it was amazing how many people bullied me or said ‘cheer up love’… even a doctor must have thought i was looking for ‘due glory’ because he said as diagnosis “get over it, others have problems and live life.” [we later worked out he had an uncle who had been one of the first doctors to see the devastation at Auschwitz.]
So hence my ‘attachment’ to your phrase ‘due glory’….
;o)
If somebody tells me to cheer up I usually say something back which I can’t write here! I found psycho-analysis through hypnosis very good for helping to deal with past trauma… Well that is the area in which I work so make up your on mind. Besides therapy educating one self about ones disorders is key to living with an upset and one day over coming it.
Bonjour à tous et merci Kealan de nous faire partager tes sentiments.
Paolo est la preuve que l’on peut faire quelque chose de sa vie, malgré les obstacles et les périodes difficile.
Quand il écrit il sait donc de quoi il parle. Ca donne beaucoup d’espoir.
Quand on pourra avoir ce livre en francais please ?
Merci et bonne lecture à tous
Nous vous remercions de votre commentaire
Great review Kealan, I am still reading it, I put it down and couldn’t find it again… maybe a magical book that has wings?!?
I loved the picture of your hands Paulo on the back cover, they convey a lot.
If I lost the book I would probably go out and buy it again! But seeing as I bought two copies one for my Mom and one for myself; I would demand her copy to read!
Dearest Carolena mentioned the book, but I could buy on line only with credit card, for now I use not. Here the clone many cards, so to stolen the money. As for the review, I am sure Kealean did a good job, but, I am not reading, because might influence my opinion, or take away the surprise. Sorry, hope I not seem weird, but as some movie, I dont want to know by hearing what is about, I want watch the movie.
Wish to be able to have that book too, soon, in a way.The t-shirts I could not reach…
Else all linked to Paulo is so great.
Love
Alexandra
P.S. I will read all later, after I have my own opinion. Thank you Kealan, I know you talented, keep on.
:)
Am preparing myself to leave to Acapulco Friday and will certainly try my best to bring that book in my luggage. I loved to read your comment Kealan, and I appreciated that you took the time Mr. Coelho to share it. Am surprised to see that I can relate to some parts of your life to mine, and so that tells me that I will certainly “gain” from reading that book, gain in force, light … With affection, Jojo.
You certainly will gain something wonderful.
Thank you dear Kealan… I am looking forward to reading it ;o) it’s on its way! :D
Love and Graditude
Annie
Well I spent all my cigarette money for the week on the book! It’s an amazing read. Fernando is a wonderful writer.
I can’t wait to read the book will it be sold in miami?
Yes. And you can find both in Spanish and English
nice honest review! liked it!
Looking forward to read the book!
PREPARENSE PARA LEER LA VIDA DE UN HOMBRE QUE ROMPE ESQUEMA.
ARE YOU READY TO READ THE MEN´S LIFE THAT BREACK SKEATCH.?
Thank you very much Kealan. I like very much your words.
Please if you go to the Paulo´s Party I wont to know who are you ok.
Good luck I hope your life is interesting.
yOU KNOW, YOU HAVE THE BOOK “THE MAGUS´S SONG” HERICA MARMO IS IN PORTUGUES I DON´T KNOW IF TO BE IN ENGLISH. IS A GOOD BOOK TOO AND IT IS PAULO´S LIFE WHEN WAS A SONG´S COMPOSER.
KISES FOR YOU
I think I will have to search this book ‘the magus’ s song’! I am intrigued!
Thank you for mentioning this, dearest Rosa!
Love and Graditude
Annie
Thank you very much Annie is a good book I´m sure that you like.
Kises for you
Dear Rosa… I was in Paris last March – I think you were there also. I did the I Ching last night. It said ‘meet the great man’ but warned ‘do not cross the great river.’ I sit in waiting for the future!
I´m me too Kealan and stay in Paris in 2008 too I ´m sorry becouse don´t meeting with you I live the same with Hildegard and Karen and I don´t know with much more.
I like very much like you white.
Ok don´t cross the river. Good Luck for you
Interesting review, Kealan (and good to see someone else who stays up till early hours and carries on reading until the book is complete!) I also enjoyed the other reviews on your fanfiction page. Good luck with the future writing.
I read the book last week and loved the intensity and honesty of it. An unmissable read.
Love
Alex
x
Book of the year!
In order to understand how life is worth you must to live in all of its beautiful and ugly parts and to understand and accept what is offered to you and try to influence on the things that you can …
so I was not surprised when I read this article about Coelho’s life – it was just as I imagine…but still, I reeeealyyy would like to read the book, not just an article :)
So, my question is: When it would be published in SERBIA :)
p.p.s Another question – when would you come to Serbia?:)
Thank you for such a powerful sharing. I encountered Paulo Coelho for the first time when I was at a very pivotal point in my life and I am grateful for his words.
Please hang in there – you have great gifts that the world welcomes and needs you to use – for yourself and for others.
Take care,
Harry
Thanks Harry… I have too much to life for! After all there is always online computer gaming!
Thanks for this review. I admire your courage for writing it and I wish you the very best Kealan. I don’t feel that alone now and feel more determined to not give up when I was just about to after officially acknowledging this day that I’m depressed. Because of the comfort I take from it you’re not a jaded hanger on, your words helped.
I’m pretty fake most of the time but this is genuine. Thank you very much. Hang in there bro, judging from the way you write the story will find you and you’ll do okay.
Before I wrote the article I almost said, this is it… I’m never going on the blog again & I’m deleting the fanfiction website… not because of the content in the book, but because I felt I was living in somebody words, world and I was seen just as a fan. By reading the book it made me remember who I am.
Depression is our current view of life based on negative thoughts we have every day. Just try and be positive! And read the book it is wonderful!
Thanks, Kealan,
I appreciate it. I wrote the reaction in a bit of an emotional turmoil. I’ll work it out don’t worry, it’s not the first time I work and pressure myself into trouble and I know how to get out of it. I’ll read the book, when I can. Expression always heals doesn’t it.
Thomas
I’m always in emotional turmoil over something! If everything is going well I always fall back to when am I going to be a writer, I want a new car, etc… We all have our bad days! Hell, wait until black Monday in the New Year! We should make a pact to be as happy as we all can that day lol
You’re on Kealan! Pact made hombre! Another good one is that there can’t be happy days without unhappy days.
I know the feeling very well , I guess like most old people tell you as to the secret to life happiness is not to want to much (I add and in playfully trying getting more).
I am on my way now to the bookstore to get this book. Thank you for this great description!
The book is better than what I have written, much better!
nice review….
dont know the book so i can not say anything…but knowing his books i know he has reached something that is still very far for many…
wishing u to be happy and make it ;) as u desire…but the point on void inside is the most interesting..thats the hard work we all have to go for..wishing u to WIN over it!
There will always be a void – it’s just the type of personality I have… It’s a good thing >> that’s what I tell myself!
Thank you for share. I have found myself today.
I think we all found ourselves toady! Thank you for commenting…
i just feel like going to the bookstore and buy the book like NOW.. I dont know if the book have been publish in singapore yet.. Im going to check it tommorrow.. But, after read all this writing, i dont think i can wait anylonger.. It will be an honour to read the real life of a genius writer who inspired me in life, a lot..
It may be in Singapore, as Harper distributes there.
Friska – I have already checked it, not in the stores yet. It will only be distributed by 17 Nov…
Thank you! When do you publish the book in Farsi or Swedish?