English I (Pre-AP): Open-Ended Question

If you didn't complete your open-ended response in class today, please do so now (replace the partial response with your completed response once your response is complete):

Which "lie" mentioned in the introduction of The Alchemist did the crystal merchant believe, and in doing so, prevented him from realizing his personal legend (i.e., stopped him from making his pilgrimage to Mecca)? Support your response with evidence from the text.

10 lines maximum.