establish that Abbas feels
does not love or want Abbas but cannot dismiss him and his passion somehow pleases her. When she parts from the other girls to return home, Abbas quickly catches up with her. She scowls, ignores his greeting, and walks faster. He struggles to catch up and tries again to talk with her. Hamida halts and accuses Abbas of being fresh, insulting her, and exposing her to scandal. He is horrified and stunned, but grows braver as she continues arguing. Saying his intentions are pure, he asks her to turn off into Azhar Street to talk. He has something important to say. Reaching Hussain Square, Hamida knows what he wants and hurries across to Ghouriya. Now that he is submissive, she needs not dominate and loses interest. This confuses and distresses her. Abbas does not follow, but heads home filled with disappointment—but not despair. At least she has spoken to him. Feeling love for Hamida, he is certain it will last, despite today’s failure. Abbas runs into Darwish at the mosque, hears he must always wear a hat, lest he meet alma’sah: t-r-a-g-e-d-y.
Chapters 1-5 Analysis Chapters 1-5 introduce the major characters, sketch their essential traits, and establish that Abbas feels compelled leave the beloved nest to earn his fortune. Western readers may find it odd that God is present in virtually every line of dialog spoken by every character, from the most pious to the most debauched. This is typical of Arabic, often as much a reflex as saying “Bless you” when someone sneezes. The blend of East and West in Egypt is symbolized by clothing, the most striking being Darwish’s golden spectacles and young Kirsha’s stylish wardrobe, showing a lifestyle to which he tries to lure lifelong friend Abbas.
In Chapter 1, which sketches the café, center of Midaq Alley’s social life, the theme is that times change, symbolized by a secondhand radio that replaces old-fashioned recitations. Chapter 2 examines Muslim views on marriage. Note that “Umm Hamida” is an example of kunya, the practice whereby an Arab man or woman gives up his or her birth name to become the father (abu) or mother (umm) of his or her firstborn; Umm Hussain is Mrs. Kirsha. That restless, self-assured, and dominating Hamida may not mesh with Abbas is strongly hinted. Note the female liberation brought on by World War II and how Jews live peaceably with Shiite Muslims.
