Smaïn; and Safti's Summer Day 1905

"Smaïn; and Safti's Summer Day" by Robert Hichens is a narrative work likely set in the early 20th century. This book combines elements of a fictional tale with a vivid exploration of life in the Sahara Desert, conveying themes of love, longing, and the stark realities of daily existence. It offers a glimpse into the culture and rhythms of Sahara life through the eyes of its two main characters, Smaïn and Safti. The story introduces Smaïn, a young and passionate boy who expresses his love through music played on a flute, as he yearns for his beloved Oreïda. The narrative highlights Smaïn's soul through the melodies he creates, portraying an unrefined yet poignant love story set against the backdrop of the desert's beauty. Safti, a wise and practical man, serves as both a guide and a scholar of life in the Sahara, providing a stark juxtaposition to Smaïn’s romanticism. Through Safti’s account of his leisurely summer days, the reader learns about local customs and societal expectations, giving deeper insight into the simple yet profound lives of those in the Sahara. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Robert Smythe Hichens was an English journalist, novelist, music lyricist, short story writer, music critic and collaborated on successful plays. He is best remembered as a satirist of the "Naughty Nineties".