In the Alchemist, Santiago exemplifies reverence through acting in accordance with the advice of the erudite old man named Melchizedek. After recently leaving his previous nomad lifestyle, Santiago finds motivation from the advice of the old man and goes on to pursue his personal legend. Discovering the validity of the old man through the confirmation of a gypsy, Santiago extols Melchizedek and decides to apply the wisdom given to him by the old man. Melchizedek, responding to the contents of Santiago’s book, declares “our lives become controlled by fate. That’s the world’s greatest lie.” Alone and without guidance, Santiago voluntarily venerates and admires the Melchizedek for his wisdom and accomplishments. Santiago is under no pressure
