Belgrade Publishing House Utopia Releases the Serbian Edition of the Book Naguib Mahfouz: Narrator and Artist by Ashraf Aboul-Yazid.
The publishing house Utopia from Belgrade has enriched the literary scene with the Serbian edition of Naguib Mahfouz: The Storyteller and the Artist, written by Ashraf Abul-Yazid. This work offers profound insight into the life and art of Naguib Mahfouz, the Egyptian Nobel laureate and one of the most significant voices in Arabic literature.The book explores the fascinating connection between Mahfouz’s works and visual arts, highlighting the contributions of Egyptian artists in bringing his stories to life. Abul-Yazid not only analyzes Mahfouz’s literary creations but also links them to paintings, engravings, sculptures, and comics.What makes this book exceptional is its ability to bridge the worlds of literature and visual expression, unveiling the deep cultural impact Mahfouz has had on Arabic arts. Through detailed exploration, the author delves into the symbolism, creativity, and themes that resonate within Mahfouz’s novels. From iconic characters like Benamun in The Harafish to broader themes of artistry and beauty, the book reveals the intricate interplay between storytelling and visual culture.This remarkable edition is enriched by a foreword from Dr. Ana Stjelja, an acclaimed writer, editor, and cultural ambassador, who situates Mahfouz’s genius within a contemporary literary and artistic context.The Serbian edition is the result of a collaborative effort: translator Nela Botoški’s skillful adaptation, Ivan Trebješanin’s meticulous design and preparation, and publisher Srđan Marković’s visionary approach, which continues to bring