The characters, namely Husyam, Layla, and Mahmud, repeatedly acknowledge the need to end imperialism, colonialism, and the power those influences have over Egyptian life. The fight against colonialism is exemplified physically by the activism of these characters - Mahmud and Husayn at the Canal, Layla’s participation in the demonstrations. However, the characters also fight colonialism in more subversive and personal ways. The young characters harbor extreme resentment for the idea of marrying into money and falling in line with the bourgeoisie, western-influenced Egyptian class. This not only further separates them ideologically from the older generation, but serves as a direct stand against colonialism. Even in personal relations, there is action against adhering to standards set by the colonizers. Decolonization in this novel is regarded as something that happens outside of the political sphere. As these characters feel colonized in the political sphere, they understand and rebel against the way colonialism has also impacted their relationships and class
The characters, namely Husyam, Layla, and Mahmud, repeatedly acknowledge the need to end imperialism, colonialism, and the power those influences have over Egyptian life. The fight against colonialism is exemplified physically by the activism of these characters - Mahmud and Husayn at the Canal, Layla’s participation in the demonstrations. However, the characters also fight colonialism in more subversive and personal ways. The young characters harbor extreme resentment for the idea of marrying into money and falling in line with the bourgeoisie, western-influenced Egyptian class. This not only further separates them ideologically from the older generation, but serves as a direct stand against colonialism. Even in personal relations, there is action against adhering to standards set by the colonizers. Decolonization in this novel is regarded as something that happens outside of the political sphere. As these characters feel colonized in the political sphere, they understand and rebel against the way colonialism has also impacted their relationships and class