Islam on the Street

This monograph is a unique and fascinating study of how the many aspects of modern trends in Islam find representation in modern Arabic literature. It combines literary and sociological investigation to explore the many ways that different trends in Islam—quietist to militant—find literary representation. Exploring this little studied but highly important subject, Professor Musawi offers readings of works by modern Arab authors that are detailed, learned, insightful, and illuminating. The author also focuses on how writers addressed and impacted different types of audiences, both popular and specialist. This volume is sure to stimulate much additional study; its influence will be felt for years to come. -- Peter Heath, chancellor, American University of Sharjah
The subtlety and finesse with which al-Musawi analyzes and describes Arabic literary works sets this book apart from other discussions of modern Arabic literature and makes it of fundamental importance to any program of Arabic literature. Essential. * CHOICE *
In this delightfully written and ambitious work, Muhsin al-Musawi explores representations of Islam 'as viewed by the public and as it appears in modern Arabic literary production.' . . . A meticulously nuanced approach to representations of Islam allows al-Musawi to draw a dynamic and multifarious map of the modern Arabic literary field, one that compels a re-evaluation of the dynamics of its production, as well as-and perhaps more importantly-a reassessment of the institutions of its criticisms. * Journal of Arabic Literature *
This extremely rich study, based on an extensive knowledge of modern Arabic literature, presents a persuasive portrait of the ideological shifts that have governed this field over the past century. The critique of Arab secular modernism is refreshing and original, and the level of nuance and sophistication is largely unprecedented. A marvelous and comprehensive treatment of the culture of 'the street' in Arab countries. -- Carl Ernst, University of North Carolina