Saïd the Fisherman · Chapter
XIII explained
Saïd hires Selìm as his servant for a month, pays him sixty piastres, and they discuss finding a lodging.
What happens
Saïd hires Selìm as his servant for a month, pays him sixty piastres, and they discuss finding a lodging. Selìm advises caution and offers to gather information. Saïd buys a new robe from a merchant brought by Selìm. Later, in a tavern, Saïd overhears a litigant complaining about a scribe's trick, which amuses him. Saïd expresses a desire for female company, but Selìm warns him against it, advising him to leave his money with the khan. Saïd distrusts the advice and goes out at night, with Selìm following him to see where he goes.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Ambition
Saïd's rise in status is marked by hiring a servant and buying a new robe, while Selìm's position as a servant highlights class distinctions.
Greed and Moral Decline
Saïd's desire for female company and his suspicion of others' motives reflect moral decline and the pursuit of personal pleasure.
Betrayal and Trust
Saïd's distrust of Selìm's advice and his suspicion of the khan's honesty illustrate themes of trust and betrayal.
Characters to notice
- Saïd the Fisherman
Hires Selìm as servant, buys a new robe, and seeks entertainment in the city.
- Selìm
Becomes Saïd's servant, advises caution, and follows him at night.
- Hasneh
Mentioned as Saïd's wife, whom he considers supplementing.
Key passages
“Let it be as thou askest! I hire thee as my servant for one month.”
Saïd agrees to employ Selìm for a month.
Saïd formalizes the servant arrangement.
“I needs must buy a new robe, for the Franks did laugh at this garment of mine.”
Saïd wants a new robe because the Franks mocked his current one.
Saïd is concerned about his appearance in the city.
“Strange women bring ruin to the wisest.”
Selìm warns that unfamiliar women can lead even wise men to disaster.
Selìm cautions Saïd against seeking female company.