Saïd the Fisherman · Question
How does Saïd the Fisherman develop the theme of Fate and Luck?
Answer
Saïd the Fisherman by Marmaduke Pickthall develops Fate and Luck across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book is structured around 'The Book of His Luck' and 'The Book of His Fate,' exploring how chance events and divine will shape Saïd's life, often in ironic ways.
The chapter title 'The Book of His Luck' directly introduces the theme of fate and luck as central to the narrative.
Saïd's fortune changes in an instant when the horsemen scatter his money, and his subsequent search yields only a fraction, showing the role of chance in his life.
Saïd's misfortune is attributed to an evil spirit, and his hope is revived by a small act of kindness, showing the role of fate and luck in his life.
Evidence in the book
- Part I: The Book of His Luck
The chapter title 'The Book of His Luck' directly introduces the theme of fate and luck as central to the narrative.
- I
Saïd's fortune changes in an instant when the horsemen scatter his money, and his subsequent search yields only a fraction, showing the role of chance in his life.
- II
Saïd's misfortune is attributed to an evil spirit, and his hope is revived by a small act of kindness, showing the role of fate and luck in his life.
- III
Saïd's fortune turns as he recovers his lost coins, but his fate is sealed by Abdullah's warning, forcing him to flee.
- XIV
Saïd's misfortune and the sudden appearance of a potential benefactor (Ismaìl Abbâs) reflect the role of fate and chance in his life.
- VIII
Saïd's sudden ruin, losing his wealth, wife, and son in one night, underscores the capriciousness of fate.
- IX
Saïd's misfortune is seen as a turn of fate, with his efforts to recover his wealth proving futile, and his salvation coming from an unexpected encounter with Ismaìl Abbâs.
- XI
Saïd's narrow escape from the soldiers and his successful swim to the steamer hinge on luck and divine providence.
