# XIII explained — Saïd the Fisherman

> Chapter companion for Saïd the Fisherman by Marmaduke Pickthall.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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