Cities of Salt Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cities of Salt - Essay Example The historical setting of this novel is crucial in explaining the relationship that existed between tradition and modernity. This novel is set in an Arabian emirate, where western companies are involved in hunting for oil (Munif, 9). This leads into the transition of the people of this emirate from their traditional methods or ways, in to modernity. The author uses this dynamic for purposes of explaining the forces of commoditization and alienation which are depicted to any emerging capitalistic culture. Take for example Miteb al-Hathal, the leader of Wadi al-Uyoun (Munif, 22). This person is confronted by the various changes occurring in his home, and he finds it difficult to use words for purposes of explaining these changes. The silence of Miteb and his disappearance is a representation of the loss that his people are experiencing. It is a symbol of the effects of imposed modernization, and even people who are supportive of it, are unable to use language for purposes of explaining the events and issues that is affecting their lives. A good example that can be used to illustrate this point is Daham al-Muzil (Munif, 25). He is an enthusiastic and loyal worker of Ibn Rashed, an Arabic Speaking individual. He refuses to stop working for Rashed, and learn modern skills that come with technology (Munif, 25). Furthermore, he is unable to speak effectively with the Western workers, who were speaking English. This is a sign that Daham al-Muzil was reluctant to embrace modernity by learning new skills, and working for the new companies that were searching and hunting for oil in the emirates. In this novel, the dramatic change from the Bedouin nomadic culture to modernity, which is represented by Western companies, is problematic. For example, when modernity arrives at Wadi al-Uyoun, the people in this region have been living in a similar manner as their ancestors (Munif, 29). These