And all of this unfolds as Sudan struggles for independence from Britain. This subsequently drives a wedge between Mahmoud and both his women, as he struggles to do the right thing for his family, especially Nur, who depends on the care of his mother. Meanwhile, tensions between the two wives reach the breaking point when Waheeba arranges a secret circumcision for Nabilah’s six-year-old daughter Ferial, a custom Nabilah (and Mahmoud) find barbaric. The news breaks Nur’s heart but ignites his creativity, leading him to become an in-demand poet and lyricist for popular musicians-a move which rankles the more conservative family members. But eventually she agrees to marry Nur’s best friend Tuf Tuf. Soraya, who continues to have feelings for Nur, throws herself into her studies, even enrolling in medical school. Reluctant to bind his niece to an invalid, Mahmoud insists they break it off. The two are sweetly in love, but their future looks bleak after Nur is paralyzed during a swimming accident.

Waheeba’s son Nur, the family heir-apparent, has progressive tendencies like his father, although he is happily betrothed to his teenage cousin Soraya. Her sophistication and intelligence represent the future to Mahmoud, who prefers her company. Nabilah, his much-younger Egyptian-born second wife, yearns for the cosmopolitan attractions of her native Cairo. His first wife Hajjah Waheeba is a traditional-and illiterate-Sudanese woman who is happy to remain in the family compound.

With two wives and four children, he straddles two worlds, insulated by his money and influence. A wealthy Muslim family in 1950s Sudan must deal with the challenges-and opportunities-of a changing world.ĭirector of a successful trading company, Mahmoud Abuzeid has an enviable, if complicated life.

Lyrics alley by leila aboulela