The Thief and The Dog (Chapter 1 & 2)

Novel: The Thief and The Dogs
Writer: Naguib Mahfouz
Edition: Anchor Books Edition, June 2008

Chapter One

Said is a young and skilled thief who just got released from jail after being betrayed by his wife and Ilish, his henchman. During 4 years in prison he could not forget everything that has happened to him and will look forward to avenge those who snatched the harmonious life he had before being imprisoned.
There is only one thing that incentives Said and that is his daughter, Sana. He expresses: “Through all this darkness only your face, Sana, smiles" p-14
In order to see Sana, Said visited his former house, unexpectedly, Detective Hasaballah was there. Ilish welcomed Said and invited him to come in. They all crowded into a sitting room and started to talk about the future of Sana. However, the six-year-old did not recognize Said as his father and began to cry. After this reaction of Sana, he felt defeated and emotionally disturbed and decided to leave.

Chapter Two

Said was wandering through Darrasa quarter; this place brings many pleasant memories to him. Suddenly he steps into a room and sees the Sheikh, his late father's religious master, sitting cross-legged on the prayer carpet. They greet each other and start to chat. Said introduces himself to the Sheikh thinking that he might not remember him.
He talked about the four years in prison, how his wife betrayed him and committed adultery, and the fact of being rejected by his own daughter. The Sheikh seems to understand; however, his speaks in the language of old times where words had a double meaning. Said feels turned away but this the only safe place for him to stay.
“I am alone with my freedom, or rather I'm in the company of the Sheikh, who is lost in heaven, repeating words that cannot be understood by someone approaching hell. What other refuge have I?" p-33

Y.D.