My Burnoose by Ameen Rihani (1913)
The novel revolves around the life of a young Arab man who returns to his homeland after years abroad and struggles with cultural identity and belonging. It explores themes of nationalism, individualism, and the complexities of Arab identity in the early 20th century. The protagonist's experiences serve as a commentary on the tensions between traditional values and modernity.
By Ameen Rihani · First published 1913 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical Fiction · 197 words
First lines
Into this world they tell me I was sent Wrapt in a burnoose, which was rudely rent And flung away, by her who first didst touch My steaming flesh; I never loved her much, The surly, stolid, sordid, spectral hag: For never would my star of fortune lag -- No dwarf of earth to oppose my will would dare -- If my sebaceous burnoose she did spare, And if around my neck, the ajouz says, It hung, locked in a charm, for twenty days.
But ever since the amulet was torn, The curse of gods and jinn and men I've worn; And to my flesh it stuck -- a Nessus shirt -- Despite the oozing blood, and not spurt Of power, alas! is left me to control The stinging tongue of an avenging soul.
What this Textopian page supports
My Burnoose is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ameen Rihani, dated 1913 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ameen Rihani
- Date: 1913 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Cultural Critique, Autobiographical
- Length: 197 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — It explores complex themes and character introspection, typical of literary fiction.
- Philosophical Fiction — The text delves into existential themes and the human condition.
- Cultural Critique — It reflects on cultural identity and societal norms.
Tags
Autobiographical · Biographical · Memoir · Travelogue · Lebanese Literature · Arabic Literature · 20th Century Literature · Middle Eastern Studies · Personal Narrative · Cultural Commentary · Historical Context · Social Commentary