# The Arrival at the Great City explained — Saïd the Fisherman

> Chapter companion for Saïd the Fisherman by Marmaduke Pickthall.

## What happens

Saïd arrives at the great city at dusk, overwhelmed by its beauty and his own loneliness. He descends into the city, finds lodging at a khan, and overhears conversations about corruption and justice. He feels isolated and longs for Hasneh, but is treated with respect due to his appearance.

## Themes in this chapter

### Identity and Alienation

Saïd feels lonely and out of place in the vast city, despite being mistaken for a person of importance.

### Social Class and Ambition

Saïd's fine robe and horse grant him respect, and he plans to sell his horse to sustain himself, reflecting class dynamics.

## Character check-ins

### Saïd the Fisherman

Arrives at the great city, feels lonely, and seeks lodging. He is taken for a superior due to his cloak and horse.

### Hasneh

Saïd longs for her presence, wishing he had her with him.

### Selìm

A muleteer who guides Saïd to the khan and chats about his travels.

## Key lines

> It is paradise,” he murmured in ecstasy.

He whispered in delight that the city looked like paradise.

_Saïd's first impression of the city is one of awe and wonder._

> He felt very lonely all at once. In all that wilderness of dwellings there was not one soul who knew him.

Suddenly he felt extremely isolated, as no one in this vast city knew him.

_Highlights Saïd's alienation upon entering the city._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sa_d_the_fisherman_se/chapters/x
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sa_d_the_fisherman_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sa_d_the_fisherman_se/chapters