Claude-Hélène Mayer

A Psychobiographical Study of Intuition in a Writer's Life: Paulo Coelho Revisited

Intuition is defined as a form of knowledge which materialises as awareness of thoughts, feelings and physical sensations. It is a key to a deeper understanding and meaningfulness. Intuition, used as a psychological function, supports the transmission and integration of perceptions from unconscious and conscious realms. This study uses a psychobiographical single case study approach to explore intuition across the life span of Paulo Coelho. Methodologically, the study is based on a single case study, using the methodological frame of Diltheys modern hermeneutics. The author, Paulo Coelho, was chosen as a subject of research, based on the content analysis of first- and third-person perspective documents. Findings show that Paulo Coelho, as one of the most famous and most read contemporary authors in the world, uses his intuitions as a deeper guidance in life, for decision-making and self-development. Intuitive decision-making is described throughout his life and by referring to selected creative works.

The Magical Life and Creative Works of Paulo Coelho: A Psychobiographical Investigation

Abstract Based on a psychobiographical approach, this study addresses magical thinking across the life span of Paulo Coelho. Paulo Coelho, who was born in Brazil in the 1940s, has become one of the most sold and famous contemporary authors in the world. In his life, as well as in his books, which are mainly autobiographical accounts, magic and magical thinking, spirituality, meaningfulness, and the living of one’s dream, are key themes. The aim of this study was to explore magic and magical thinking in Paulo Coelho’s life and creative works. The study uses a psychobiographical single case study approach within the methodological frame of Husserl’s phenomenology. The author, Paulo Coelho, was chosen as the subject of research. Documents providing both first person and third person perspectives were subjected to content analysis. The findings show that magical thinking played an important role in Coelho’s creative works and in his life, in the form, for example, of ascriptions of magic to key situations in his life, the performance of daily rituals, mystic interpretations of life events, and his deep religious faith. Magical thinking is usually regarded as indicative of pathological and inappropriate cognitive and psychological behaviour, especially when found in adults in a westernised culture. However, the analysis of Coelho’s life and works shows that magical thinking can be utilised creatively and be integrated into one’s life to enable personal development and growth while simultaneously providing fertile ground for creative production. In Paulo Coelho’s case, the intertwining of religion and magical thinking provided deep meaning that guided his personal development.

Revisions, Conclusions and Recommendations

This chapter provides the summary of the findings, the conclusion, theoretical and practical revisions of the theories (psychobiography, holistic wellness model, faith development theory). The contribution of the study and its limitations are reported. Recommendations for future psychobiographical research and practice are given.

Research Findings and Discussion on Paulo Coelho’s Life

This chapter presents the qualitative findings of the study with regard to the analysis of the entire life of Paulo Coelho. Qualitative findings are presented and reconstructed according to the research purpose and aims and in the context of the holistic wellness model (HWM) and the faith development theory (FDT).

The Holistic Wellness Model

This chapter is the first theoretical chapter that describes the holistic wellness model (HWM). Wellness and related constructs are defined and the HWM and its development are described. As one part of the wellness model, the wheel of wellness (WOW) is presented. The HWM includes the six life tasks: spirituality, self-direction, work and leisure, friendship and love. It further on includes the concept of life forces and global event. Finally, the concept of the indivisible self (IS-Wel) and the HWM is presented within the context of psychobiographical research is explored. Critical aspects of the theory and its limitations are addressed.

The Life and Creative Works of Paulo Coelho: A Chronological Overview

This chapter gives a chronological overview on the life and creative works of Paulo Coelho, one of the worlds most famous and most sold authors. This chapter includes biographical “facts” as well as descriptions of (autobiographical) creative works of Paulo Coelho from birth to his 70th birthday (1947–2017). This chapter provides complex information on the writer from different perspectives, based on primary and secondary literature.

Research Design and Methodology

The research methodology includes the research design and in-depth qualitative research approach. Research design, research strategy, approach and setting are introduced. Quality criteria for the study are established. Ethical considerations are discussed and methodological limitations are presented. Further on, Chap. 6 finally includes the description of the data collection process, the data analysis, data reporting and evaluation of data.