The Apprentice. Three Alchemical Tales

Alchemy is not only about working with substances to obtain the "subtle from the gross." Alchemy, according to the author himself, is the art of being happy. And why are we so happy in childhood? Patrick Burensteinas is a true alchemist of the 21st century. He has composed three magical tales and, in a folklore form, speaks to us not in a "bird's," incomprehensible language, but addresses the child within us. Openness to the world and legends, the ability to dream and be passionate are integral parts of the Art. Great Art is demanding of those who are about to approach it, and therefore the initial stage consists of purification: both of the metal and of the future Initiate.

The theme of apprenticeship is revealed in the tales "The Apprentice" and "On Measure and Immeasurable." Patrick Burensteinas teaches us a lesson, telling us about the apprentice-dreamer and his strict teacher. The image of the master-alchemist from "The Apprentice" points to the true character of one who is willing to sacrifice themselves for the sake of upholding Tradition.

The tale of the Forgetful Princess... We often talk about there being a special chemistry between loving people. The story of the princess and her beloved conveys what happens during one of the Works in the alchemist's crucible. After all, the special mixing of metals transforms both the substance and the one working with them in the laboratory. And under the power of love, a wizard can turn into a human, a novice alchemist into an Initiate, and lead into gold.