Character Analysis: Samir in "The rain missed my face and fell straight to my shoes"
This page provides a detailed character analysis of Samir, the protagonist in Saeed Taji Farouky's short story. Samir is an illegal immigrant from Cairo living in London, facing numerous challenges as he tries to survive in a foreign land.
Samir's background and living conditions are described in detail. He is a Muslim from Cairo, working illegally in London at an underground station and in the kitchen of Café Tangier. His living conditions are poor, as he sleeps behind warehouses and factories due to lack of proper housing.
Highlight: Samir's precarious situation as an illegal immigrant is emphasized through his living conditions and constant fear of being caught.
The analysis delves into Samir's personality traits and emotional state. He is portrayed as insecure, afraid of crowds, and fearful of being alone. His relationship with his mother is highlighted as a significant aspect of his character, showing his caring nature despite his difficult circumstances.
Example: Samir's close relationship with his mother is evident when he stays with her all night in the hospital, only leaving at midnight to work at the underground stations.
Samir's moral struggles are a central focus of the character analysis. He engages in criminal activities out of necessity but feels deeply conflicted about these actions. His desire to appear positive to others, especially his family back home, is also emphasized.
Quote: "I hated to think of [myself] as a criminal" and "I still felt like a thief. That made me sick."
The analysis also touches on Samir's relationships with his friends, Aqil and Yousself, and how these relationships influence his decisions and actions. His reluctance to join them in Paris highlights his fear of change and the unknown.
Vocabulary: Illegal immigrant - A person who enters or resides in a country without the legal right to do so.
In conclusion, the character analysis paints a complex picture of Samir as a man struggling with his identity, morality, and survival in a foreign land. His experiences reflect broader themes of immigrant experiences, cultural displacement, and the human desire for a better life.
