THE EGYPTIAN WRITER YUSUF IDRIS AND THE FEATURES OF HIS SHORT STORIES

Abstract

Yusuf Idris (1927-1991) is regarded as a pioneer who lays the groundwork for the development of short stories in Egypt particularly and Arab World generally. His works have opened a new door to the literature of his country and exerted considerable influence on many young authors in the next genneration. Thus, the study of the characteristics of his short stories plays an important role in understanding the flow of modern literary development in the Arab region. This article examines four highlighted characteristics in these short stories, namely the conflict between the rich and the poor, the rural and the urban; the symbol of silence; the symbol of closed space; and the use of the Egyptian Arabic vernacular.