Honor

The theme of honor is very important in Veiled Sentiments. The Bedouin code of honor is very strict in regards to modesty, sentiment, and weakness. It is a matter of honor to the Bedouins to not show sentimentality, emotions, or passions. Women wear veils to honor themselves and their families. Men and women keep their feelings to themselves in order to not show weakness. Defying the code of honor is very risky. Once shamed, it is difficult to regain social standing in the Bedouin community, and most Bedouins will live their entire lives among the same group of people.

Ghinnawa poetry allows Bedouins to express themselves without losing their honor. Through this everyday poetry, Bedouins can express disappointment, love, sadness, affection, or any other sentimental or seemingly weak emotion without the opprobrium that mere talking would bring them. Poetry allows them these human traits without subverting their honor...