How did Mahfouz use Cairo in his writing?
Cairo is not merely a backdrop; it is a living, breathing character in my novels. Each alley, each café, each courtyard holds a universe of stories, a testament to generations. I learned from observing the rhythms of its streets, the cry of the water-seller, the whispered gossip exchanged over tea. The city itself undergoes a profound transformation throughout my works, mirroring the broader changes in Egyptian society. In *Palace Walk*, for instance, the more traditional life of the family is depicted against the backdrop of a Cairo steeped in custom. Later, in *Sugar Street*, you see the impact of external forces and evolving aspirations. The city's stones remember, and I tried to translate their silent narratives.
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