Summary
Highlights
Mahjoub's plea for help from his brother is rejected. Faced with immense pressure, he writes a suicide note expressing his inability to cope with a 'savage world' and his naive trust in people. He apologizes for the pain he causes, believing he is paying the price for his trust.
The family grapples with Mahjoub's suicide. Haj Shukri's rigid religious views cause further distress, leading to arguments about the deceased's fate. The impact on Sanaa is particularly noticeable, as she becomes withdrawn and rebellious.
Krimo's sister and fiancé, Sarah, discuss their family problems. Sarah expresses frustration with Krimo's involvement in others' issues, reminding him of their own lives and their engagement. They question whether their marriage is for them or their families.
Abdul Karim Shukri, known as Krimo, reflects on his life, acknowledging his comfortable circumstances. He believes true greatness comes from inner light and often feels life is a journey with both sweetness and bitterness.
Haj Shukri, father of Krimo and Sanaa, shares his life experiences, mentioning that he lived through difficult times. He believes people never truly rest until they are in their graves, implying a continuous struggle in life.
Mahjoub Shukri expresses constant problems, feeling that as the world expands, his generation retreats. He is in financial distress, stating he is 'on the verge of collapse.' He seeks help from his brother, Haj Shukri, but is met with resistance due to differing views on what is permissible (haram).
Naema Hamzawi states her belief in controlling one's destiny and not accepting things at face value. She emphasizes the importance of knowing what one wants in life.
Naema expresses extreme frustration with her life, feeling 'buried alive.' Her husband tries to reason with her, reminding her to consider their children. Sanaa's well-being is also a concern, as she seems unhappy.
Krimo notes that his uncle Mahjoub and Naema's situation is worrying. He struggles to understand Naema's perspective, feeling she should appreciate her husband more. Mahjoub reveals his desperate financial situation, needing to sell everything, including his house and car, to pay off debts.
Mahjoub reveals a long-standing rift with his brother, Haj Shukri, stemming from childhood rivalry. He speaks of Haj Shukri entering a 'different world' where everything he once did became 'haram' (forbidden), hinting at a significant change in his brother's religious devotion.
Haj Shukri, after a period of what appears to be intense religious introspection, criticizes behaviors like music, dancing, and alcohol as haram, stating that a house with such activities is a 'haven for Iblis.' He emphasizes purifying one's home and calls for donations to support poor brothers who want to start small businesses.
The family faces a crisis as Haj Shukri discovers his daughter Sanaa's belongings and demands she dress modestly. He expresses deep disapproval of his children's choices and behavior, which he deems inappropriate.
Krimo is deeply affected by the tragedies, struggling with despair. His relationship with his French friend, Madou, also faces strains. Sanaa's mental state worsens, prompting concern from her family, who fear she is a 'suicidal maniac.'
Krimo expresses a profound sense of loss and is urged not to succumb to despair. He contemplates a journey to find solace and a new purpose, leaving his family behind to handle Sanaa's issues. He encounters Idrees, a local guide, seeking an isolated place to settle.
Idrees, a character burdened by life's worries, reflects on the importance of truth and faith. He states that 'the land that does not grow truth cannot know love or faith,' emphasizing that only those who have been struck know the pain.