How does absurdity manifest through Dr. Igor’s character? How do these absurd aspects of Dr. Igor contribute to the novel’s exploration of “sanity,” normalcy, and “insanity”?

What is the purpose of Paulo Coelho’s presence in the narrative? What does his meta-self-inclusion suggest about the work’s semi-autobiographical nature?

Spirituality is a strong undercurrent of the novel, from the Sufi teacher to Veronika’s grandmother’s painting. How does spirituality inform and complicate the themes of the novel?