Secrets of the Heart - Youssef El Sebai

 Secrets of the Heart

Overview

Secrets of the Heart is a short story collection by the Egyptian writer Youssef El Sebai, first published in 1948. It is among his most notable works, blending elements of both romance and realism while delving into the hidden depths of human psychology and the emotions concealed behind outward appearances.

Through a series of stories, El Sebai uncovers the secrets and inner conflicts of his characters, addressing themes such as love, betrayal, jealousy, and human vulnerability.

Selected Stories

“Another Doll”

This story revolves around a complex love affair in which a woman seeks to destroy a man’s love for her by wounding him emotionally and ultimately running away. 

Love gradually withers into a lifeless doll, symbolizing how deep feelings can turn into nothing more than cold memories.

“A Mother’s Sin”

Here, a mother abandons her husband and daughter to run away with her lover, leaving the child with profound psychological scars. 

The daughter struggles between hatred for her mother and fear of becoming like her, while also confronting society’s judgment as the “daughter of sin.” In the end, reconciliation takes place when the mother returns and her daughter forgives her.

“Withered Flowers”

This tale follows a man drifting through shallow romantic entanglements, reflecting his inner emptiness and inability to form meaningful emotional bonds.

Recurring Themes

• The struggle between matter and spirit: El Sebai questions the existence of an unseen world, such as spirits, even as he personally remains unconvinced.

• Psychological undercurrents: The tension between outward appearances and inner truths is laid bare.

• Complex human relationships: From destructive love to forgiveness and reconciliation.

Style

El Sebai’s style in this collection is marked by:

• Clear, flowing prose infused with psychological depth.

• A balance of romantic sensibility and social critique, exploring societal problems through the lens of personal stories.

• Frequent use of interior monologue to reveal the characters’ hidden emotions and inner conflicts.

Conclusion

Secrets of the Heart is a profound literary work that showcases Youssef El Sebai’s mastery in exploring the human psyche and unveiling its concealed truths.

 With its variety of stories, the collection offers both psychological insight and a critical view of social norms, while emphasizing the power of emotions and their impact on human lives.

It stands as one of the significant contributions to modern Arabic literature, skillfully combining engaging storytelling with psychological and emotional depth.

For the original summary in Arabic