Final answer:
In the novel 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho, there is no specific consequence outlined by the elder if Santiago's vision fails to materialize. The story emphasizes the importance of personal growth during Santiago's journey, which resonates with the broader literary theme of struggling toward enlightenment, as in Plato's allegory of the Cave.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Paulo Coelho's novel The Alchemist, the elder does not provide a clear consequence for Santiago if his vision does not come true. Instead, the book focuses on Santiago's journey of personal discovery and the pursuit of his Personal Legend. It suggests that the journey itself is significant, irrespective of the outcome. Unlike the explicit sequences of actions and predictions tied to Santiago's journey found in the book, traditional literature often explores characters' reactions to unfulfilled prophecies or visions, as exemplified in the renowned allegory of the Cave by Plato, where Socrates discusses the enlightenment of a prisoner freed from the cave and his struggles with adapting to the newfound reality.
Each text in literature, from Paulo Coelho's evocative narratives to the philosophical dialogues of Plato, offers a unique exploration of the human experience. Santiago's quest in The Alchemist highlights themes of personal growth and fulfillment, where success is not solely defined by achieving one's dreams but also by the personal insights gained through striving for them.