The Doum Tree of Wad Hamid Free Essay Example, 750 words

Salih s The Doum Tree of Wad Hamid can be viewed in several different ways. Realistically this story is about a primitive village. Symbolically this story is about survival in a harsh environment. This story could also be related to the stubbornness of the villagers. Theologically this story could be about mysticism and a holy place. All of these elements can be seen in this story. The tale describes how Arabic villagers are human and have humanistic traits. Overall The Doum Tree of Wad Hamid is a recommendable story. The Doum Tree of Wad Hamid is a story about a primitive village. The setting is remote and in the Middle East. Since steamboats and donkeys are used to travel, the time of this story is before the late 19th century. An older man tells the story of his village. The Doum Tree of Wad Hamid is a large tree located by the river on the rocks. In this primitive village with no running water, gas lamps, indoor lighting, or other modern necessities, the Doum Tree of Wad Ham id is the main attraction of the town. We will write a custom essay sample on The Doum Tree of Wad Hamid or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now A guest is listening to the background of the village and the Doum Tree of Wad Hamid. This oral recollection by the narrator is the realistic nature of this tale. This story has many symbolic parts. The sand-flies could represent many things symbolically. Swarming sand-flies could be seen as the bane of the village or the salvation of the village. The same could be said of the swarming horse flies. Although these two flies are a nuisance to the villagers, they have managed to cope with the insects. The flies create an unbearable nuisance for visitors. While it keeps preachers away, it also keeps army men and urban development people from taking over the village. The flies distract individuals trying to modernize the community. Since the villagers do not want the village modernized, the flies are a blessing. Thus the flies are protection from outsiders. The Doum Tree of Wad Hamid represents symbolically an elder in the village. When someone is sick t hey go to the Doum Tree. The village offers prayers and blessings at the tree. The villagers dream about the tree, causing them to interpret the dreams and act accordingly. The Doum Tree is a symbol of health, wisdom, and good luck. The Doum Tree of Wad Hamid is the symbol of the whole village.