What do the various male characters' comments suggest about the status of women in Egypt in the late 1960s? From her reactions, how do you think Zohra Salama fits and/or defies their views?

How is alcohol consumption deal with in the novel? Does it surprise you, in light of the subsequent Islamic fundamentalism, that Muslims behave in this way?

How does Umm Kulthum's broadcast help establish the various characters' personalities?

How do you understand from the novel Egypt's political and economic situation in the late 1960s?

How is sex portrayed in the novel? Does it surprise you, in light of the subsequent Islamic fundamentalism, that Muslims behave in this way?

How is the Greek Christian Mme. Mariana portrayed? How does her life's story contribute to the tale? What does her character say about Egyptian attitudes towards the elderly in the late 1960s?

What...