Double Talk

"There is a dual language in the Moroccan cultural scene-one Arabic and the other French-through which writers express themselves and engage in dialogue. They wage war and then make peace, depending on the composition of society and its mosaic, as well as the nature of the elite that represents it. And it is this dual language that gives writing, thought, and creativity their unique dynamism and vitality. As for the classification of Moroccan authors into Arabic-speaking and French-speaking groups, I find it to be a cliché, as it aims to create a deep chasm between Moroccan writers regardless of their language," writes Driss EL KHOURY. Each of the essays in this collection tackles, with acuity, vigor, and relevance-and in a style that "flows naturally"-one of the themes underpinning cultural and intellectual life in Morocco in particular and in the Arab world in general. This writing displays a rare lucidity in the Arab world, which is what prompted me to translate this collection. Driss EL KHOURY is a great writer who has remained little known, as his work has been read only by Arabic speakers. Hence this modest effort, undertaken for the pleasure and benefit of making his work accessible to French-speaking readers.