Translating Nouzha Fassi Fihri's La Baroudeuse: A Case Study in ...

of an ewe or a goat he had trapped between his legs. He sneaked into hedged
gardens and filled his hood with oranges, taking them away to eat while he
dangled his feet in the water at the river's edge or sprawled on the bank.
Sometimes the owners caught him red-handed. Then, he lifted his cloak to his
armpits and ran, leaving behind his pickings to lighten his load and get away from
his pursuers.
Not once did he consider settling in one of the cities along the way. All he
knew about Fez was that it was big and ancient, that it was in a valley at the foot
of Zalagh Mountain, and that it was famous for its flowing springs and luxuriant
gardens.
child?"
One day an old man asked him, "Where are you going like that, my
"To Fez," he had answered.
"Do you realize how far it is to Fez, without a father to hold your hand, or
a guide to show you the way in the maze of paths? Do you realize there are snakes
that bite careless ankles, dogs that are set on the tracks of vagabonds, and thieves
who steal and kill?"
"I know, Father, but I also know there are young nymphs who dance to the
rhythm of the west wind, flowers that sparkle with dew and stars that weave a
twinkling cloak for the solitary traveler each night."
He was radiant with joy when, at the call of the sunset prayer in blood-red
twilight, he finally reached the hilltop overlooking the city of his dreams.
Hundreds of minarets pointing up over the city sounded the same call, "God is
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