"I no longer wish to write; my head is empty of ideas, of story plots, and of stories in general. I have long since poured the words that were deep inside me onto paper, emptied myself of them, and cast my pen from my hand. That is why, when my obituary finally appears in 'The Times,' people will say: 'How strange!... We thought he had died years ago!'"

With this simplicity and the humility of an author conscious of his responsibility, Somerset Maugham announced his own death, which had occurred many years ago—ever since he stopped writing! And when I recall that the author who said these words sold (80 million) copies of his books, translated into various languages around the world, I am filled with a wicked academic desire to prepare a long list of contemporary Arab writers who have rested on the laurels of their past works, content with a medal nearly consumed by rust and a title they consider a charm that consecrates their talents, and which their children might inherit after them!...

In these literary and creative insights, Ghada Al-Samman is a critic, speaking in her distinguished style—far from investigation and affectation, steeped in simplicity, practiced in precision, vibrant with life and spontaneity, and rich with creative thought.

• Author: Ghada Al-Samman
• Publisher: Dar Al-Taleea-Beirut
• Edition Number: 1
• Year of Publication: 2000
• Number of Pages: 320
• Number of Parts: 1
• Binding Type: Paperback
• Paper Type: White
• Printing Colors: Single Color
• ISBN: 9953900507