Life in Zamalek

Since our return from Upper Egypt, I have gotten into a pretty steady flow. Daily routines have allowed my body to fully adjust to the Egyptian lifestyle. I spend four hours a day, four days a week in the Blue Room or the Harmon Room with Peter and my classmates learning Arabic. In the midst of studying for our first quiz, random shrieks and excited outcries, the harsh melody of constant car horns and the occasional voice of a Muslim sheik over loudspeakers, float up to the 11th floor of the Flamenco Hotel. Closing my eyes, I sometimes feel as though I could be back in Burstein Hall in Boston, relaxing after a long day of classes. Sitting by the window and even laying in the one bed in our standard double hotel room, the noise never dies down, providing both a level of distress and a level of comfort. This cacophony hangs about as a backdrop to the bustling city life, reminding me that I am never alone. Although this distraction is frustrating at times, my mind has begun to drown out the sounds and I refocus my attention on my studies.
We have barely been in class for a week and I already feel as though I have learned so much. Learning Arabic makes me reminiscent of days spent in Greek school, listening and repeating, soaking in as much as possible, hoping the teacher doesn’t call on me. Difficult pronunciations and different articulations, new letters spelling words from right to left, these things challenge my mind. The Arabic I have learned in class, though very basic, has provided me with a means of communicating with those around me. Feeling like slightly less of a minority, I find myself straining my ears, trying to pick out any words or pieces of conversations around me. Thus far, I have found myself realizing the significance of languages. Communication becomes limited, if possible at all, between myself and others. Ordering food at a restaurant or asking for directions is a challenge, for even though I am able to inquire, comprehension is still a challenge.
Once again, Abduh and Hayyam welcomed us to their home, treating us to another delectable Egyptian dinner. We also had our first official "Dialogue." I was surprised, but relieved, to find out that all of the students spoke English, some better than others. While their proficiency in English allowed us to hold a pretty in depth conversation about American politics, some language barriers persisted as we tried to explain certain idiomatic expressions. Again, the concept of language as our best means of communication surfaced as we proceeded to talk about religion, September 11th and stereotyping. During the allotted breaks and even during the conversations, I found the Egyptian students to be very welcoming and open minded. Upon leaving, we received many invitations to accompany our new found friends to the pyramids and/or to the Egyptian Museum. Who knows what the future has in store, for now...time for bed!