A previously unknown manuscript by Nobel Prize-winning author Naguib Mahfouz has been unearthed in the archives of the prestigious Nadwat Al-Muqalaa literary salon in Cairo. Titled "Harassment, " the work is believed to be an unfinished novella and is the first discovery of a major unpublished Mahfouz piece in decades.
News of the manuscript sent shockwaves through the Egyptian literary community. Mahfouz, who passed away in 2006, is considered one of the most important Arab writers of the 20th century. His works, which often explored themes of social injustice and political turmoil, continue to be widely read and studied.
"This is a significant discovery, " said Dr. Layla Ahmed, a professor of Arabic literature at Cairo University. "Mahfouz was a prolific writer, but there's always the possibility of unpublished works existing. To find something of this caliber is a true gift to the literary world. "
Details about "Harassment" are scarce. The manuscript is handwritten and incomplete, and the exact date of composition is unknown. However, literary experts believe it was written sometime in the 1960s or 1970s, a period marked by significant social and political change in Egypt.
The salon where the manuscript was found, Nadwat Al-Muqalaa, has a long and illustrious history. Founded in the 1920s, it served as a meeting place for some of Egypt's most prominent writers and intellectuals. Mahfouz was a frequent attendee, and it is believed that he may have entrusted the manuscript to the salon for safekeeping.
The discovery of "Harassment" has sparked speculation about the content of the unfinished novella. Mahfouz was known for his unflinching portrayal of social issues, and many believe that "Harassment" would have tackled a topic both timely and timeless.
"Mahfouz was never one to shy away from difficult subjects, " said Dr. Ahmed. "It's highly likely that 'Harassment' would have dealt with a social issue that resonated with him, something he felt compelled to write about. "
The Nadwat Al-Muqalaa salon is currently working with literary experts to authenticate and prepare the manuscript for publication. The process is expected to take several months, but the prospect of a new Mahfouz work has generated considerable excitement among fans and scholars alike.
The discovery of "Harassment" is a testament to Mahfouz's enduring legacy and the importance of preserving literary heritage. It is a reminder that even the most celebrated authors can leave behind hidden treasures waiting to be rediscovered.