Mohamed Leftah's 'Demoiselles de Numidie' Explores Casablanca Prostitution
In his novel 'Demoiselles de Numidie,' Moroccan author Mohamed Leftah, a Cairo resident, examines the distinct world of prostitution in Casablanca, contrasting it with French practices. The story features two pimps, Spartacus and Zapata, named after historical and cinematic figures, and prostitutes who adopt flower names, symbolizing their transient lives. Leftah's sumptuous French prose blends sociopoetic commentary with a depiction of the strict rules governing this milieu, where violations carry severe consequences. Published by Éditions la Différence, the novel delves into the hierarchies, rituals, and philosophies unique to this underworld.
Key facts
- Mohamed Leftah is the author of 'Demoiselles de Numidie'.
- The novel is published by Éditions la Différence.
- The story is set in Casablanca's prostitution scene.
- Pimps Spartacus and Zapata are named after Kirk Douglas's film and a Mexican revolutionary.
- Prostitutes use flower names as metaphors for their lives.
- Leftah is Moroccan and lives in Cairo.
- The novel is written in French.
- It combines narrative with sociopoetic analysis.
Entities
Artists
- Mohamed Leftah
Institutions
- Éditions la Différence
Locations
- Casablanca
- Morocco
- Cairo
- Egypt
Sources
- artpress —