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Quote by Leila Aboulela

Work

Minaret

This book delves into the life of a young woman living in a traditional Arab society, as she navigates the complexities of her personal and cultural identities amidst the backdrop of political and social change. more

Author

Leila Aboulela
Leila Aboulela

Leila Aboulela is a British novelist and essayist born in 1964. Her works often explore themes of immigration, identity, and religious faith, deeply influenced by East African and Islamic cultures. more

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“Why do bad things happen? For pedagogical reasons, so that we can experience the power of Allah, catch a glimpse of Hell and fear it, so that we can practice seeking refuge in Him and, when relief comes give thanks to His mercy. Darkness was created so that, like plants, we could yearn and turn to the light.”

“The camera has a mind of its own--its own point of view. Then the human bearer of time stumbles into the camera's gaze--the camera's domain of pristine space hitherto untraversed is now contaminated by human temporality. Intrusion occurs, but the camera remains transfixed by its object. It doesn't care. The camera has no human fears.”

“I have learned, as has many another better writer, to summon inspiration to my call as soon as I begin my day's stint, and not to hang around waiting for it. Inspiration is merely a pretty phrase for the zest to work. And it can be cultivated by anyone who has the patience to try. Inspiration that will not come at its possessor's summons is like a dog that cannot be trained to obey. The sooner both are gotten rid of, the better.”