Introduction to Naguib Mahfouz’s Life
Naguib Mahfouz, a renowned Egyptian writer, shared his thoughts and experiences with Mohamed Salmawi in a series of intensive discussions. These talks, which were regularly published in newspapers, started on December 22, 1994, and lasted for 12 years until Mahfouz’s departure in 2006. Salmawi would visit Mahfouz’s house in Agouza, Cairo, with a small recording device to capture their conversations.
Conversations with Naguib Mahfouz
During their dialogues, Mahfouz spoke about various topics, including culture, politics, and literature. He also shared his personal life, memories, and opinions on different subjects. Salmawi gathered almost 500 hours of recorded conversations, which provided valuable insights into Mahfouz’s thoughts and experiences.
Memories of Egyptian Leaders
Mahfouz’s memories of Egyptian leaders before and after the 1952 revolution were a significant part of the conversations. He shared his thoughts on notable figures such as Saad Zaghloul, Mustafa Al-Nahhas, Gamal Abdel Nasser, and Anwar Sadat.
Saad Zaghloul
Mahfouz considered Saad Zaghloul a hero of his generation and a symbol of patriotism. He remembered the 1919 revolution and how it inspired him to learn about politics and history. Although Mahfouz never met Zaghloul in person, he admired him greatly and was moved to tears when recalling his memories of the leader.
Mustafa Al-Nahhas
Mahfouz described Mustafa Al-Nahhas as a moral and hardworking leader who was dedicated to the Wafd party. Despite holding the presidency of the ministry several times, Al-Nahhas lived a simple life and received a small monthly salary. Mahfouz admired Al-Nahhas’s integrity and commitment to his principles.
Gamal Abdel Nasser
Mahfouz had mixed feelings about Gamal Abdel Nasser, whom he considered a leader of great influence on Egypt. Nasser’s revolution changed the country’s class composition and destroyed feudalism without bloodshed. However, Mahfouz criticized Nasser’s dictatorship and the role of intelligence services in Egyptian politics. He met Nasser on several occasions, including at the opening of the new Al-Ahram building in 1968.
Anwar Sadat
Mahfouz’s relationship with Anwar Sadat was complex. He was prevented from writing in the early 1970s due to his involvement in the "state of peace and war" initiative. However, Sadat later apologized to Mahfouz, and he was allowed to resume writing. Mahfouz remembered the day of Sadat’s assassination and how it affected him.
Reflections on Egyptian History
Mahfouz’s conversations with Salmawi provided a unique perspective on Egyptian history and politics. His memories and opinions offered valuable insights into the lives and legacies of prominent Egyptian leaders. Through his stories, Mahfouz shared his love for Egypt and his commitment to its people and culture.
