Customer Reviews

The Return of Consciousness (New York University Studies in Near Eastern Civilization)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

"The Return of Consciousness" and "Return of the Spirit" are two separate works written by al-Hakim. Return of the Spirit, originally published in 1933 tells the story of the 1919 Revolution in Egypt and is considered one of the inspirations for Nasser's 1952 Free Officers Coup. Hakim, initially an ardent supporter of the Nasserist program, quickly became disenchanted with the oftentimes despotic nature of the new regime, and in 1974 published "The Return of Consciousness" following Nasser's death. This publication elicited much criticism from pro-Nasserist forces within Egypt for its harsh critique of the Nasserist era.

I am rather sure that the proper translation of the title of this novel is "Return of the Spirit" (Awdad il Ruh). I did not read this translation but it concerns me that the title would be mistranslated important as it is because spirit and consciousness are two different things. I am sure the westerner who translated would argue the opposite. This books is possibly one of the best books I have ever read. It is Al-Hakim's best story. If you like this book you will also enjoy "Maze of Justice" and "Tree Climber" and "The Fate of a Cockroach".