We Wrote in Symbols

‘In We wrote in symbols, Selma Dabbagh … elevates self-assertive voices and banishes long-held silences on matters such as same-sex desire and masturbation … Daring. Electrifying.’

-- TLS

‘A fascinating collection … eye-opening in its scope and styles, and rewarding in its daring and novelty … as fun and accessible as it is successful in challenging preconceived notions of sexuality in the literary output of Arab women authors ... a revelation.’

-- Erotic Review

'Fierce, captivating, revolutionary. A dazzling collection that will win hearts and change minds.'

-- Elif Shafak

'These voices are furious, witty, outrageous, tender and entranced. This collection offers much delightful entertainment and fresh perspectives on women and sex in the Middle East.'

-- Marina Warner

‘A rich and diverse selection of poetry and prose … [these women] write about lust, passion, sex, and desire in lyrical detail.’

-- The New Arab

'This anthology provides a glimpse into a world that has been constantly made invisible or policed ... these voices provide a point of reference for the long-forgotten tradition of erotic writing and the censorship of Arab women’s sex lives and experiences.'

-- Asymp