“The Water Carrier Died” by Egyptian novelist Yusuf Al-Sibai
1. Basic Information
-
Author: Yusuf Al-Sibai (renowned Egyptian writer and former Minister of Culture)
-
Publication Date: 1952, published by the University Press
-
Setting: The story unfolds in Cairo’s Al-Husseiniya neighborhood during the 1920s, offering a vivid portrayal of working-class districts and everyday life in that era.
2. Main Characters
-
Master Shousha the Water Carrier: The novel’s protagonist, who works delivering water. Haunted by the death of his wife, he struggles with deep grief and an overwhelming fear of death.
-
Shahata Effendi: A mysterious man whose livelihood revolves around funerals—known as a “reminder of death” or “dealer in funerals.” Unlike Shousha, he radiates optimism and wisdom, challenging the notion of fearing death.
-
Umm Amina and young Sayed: Shousha’s mother-in-law and son, who share in the family’s daily struggles and joys.
3. Plot Overview
The story begins when Shousha rescues Shahata Effendi from being beaten in a café and later invites him into his home.
At first, Shousha is unsettled by Shahata’s profession, so closely tied to death. Over time, however, Shahata helps him confront his fears and rediscover the meaning of life.
Tragedy strikes when Shahata suddenly dies in Shousha’s house, leaving Shousha devastated.
Later, Shousha is promoted to the respected position of head of the water carriers. Yet, in a cruel twist of fate, his house collapses on him during his celebration, bringing his story to a tragic end.
4. Themes and Symbols
-
Life and Death: The novel wrestles with existential questions about mortality, contrasting Shousha’s despair with Shahata’s acceptance and hope.
-
Psychological Transformation: Shousha’s journey from fear and paralysis to reluctant acceptance highlights the human struggle against fate.
-
Social Commentary: The narrative captures the texture of popular life in old Cairo, spotlighting traditional professions like water carrying and funeral chanting.
5. Film Adaptation
In 1977, celebrated director Salah Abu Seif adapted the novel into a film, co-produced with legendary filmmaker Youssef Chahine.
-
Differences from the Novel: The film’s ending is notably more hopeful than the book’s bleak conclusion.
-
Cast: Featured stars such as Ezzat El Alaili (as Shousha), Farid Shawqi (as Shahata), Amina Rizk, and Shweikar.
6. Literary Style and Techniques
-
Language and Description: Al-Sibai employs Egyptian colloquial dialogue with vivid, cinematic detail, bringing neighborhoods, characters, and moods to life.
-
Dialogues: The philosophical conversations between Shousha and Shahata deepen the tension between fear and acceptance.
-
Tragic Ending: A hallmark of the novel, its ending leaves readers with a lasting emotional impact.
Key Information at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Author | Yusuf Al-Sibai |
| Year Published | 1952 |
| Setting | Al-Husseiniya, Cairo |
| Main Character | Master Shousha the Water Carrier |
| Core Themes | Death, fear, psychological change, everyday life |
| Film Adaptation | 1977 film by Salah Abu Seif |
Conclusion
The Water Carrier Died stands as one of the landmark works of modern Arabic literature. With its philosophical depth, social realism, and haunting tragic ending, it reflects Yusuf Al-Sibai’s gift for blending symbolism with the raw texture of everyday Egyptian life.
For readers drawn to stories rich in human detail, existential struggle, and emotional resonance, this novel is an unforgettable choice.
For the original summary in Arabic
0 تعليقات