In a thought-provoking article, writer Karam Gaber poses a question that resonates with many Egyptians: has Egypt changed or have we changed? The article features a scene from a film, "Hikayat Hub," shot nearly 70 years ago in the Heliopolis Gardens area, showcasing elegant clothes, calm faces, and a serene atmosphere. This nostalgic image prompts a reflection on whether Egypt was truly more peaceful and refined in the past or if it's just a matter of perspective.
The comparison between past and present is complex, as it's not just about two different eras but also two distinct images of life. The old image, often depicted in arts and media, presents an idealized version of the past, focusing on cleanliness, elegance, and respect. In contrast, the present is marked by chaos, noise, and haste. This contrast raises questions about the nature of change and how it affects people's perceptions.
The article suggests that cinema can be misleading, as it often portrays the past in an overly romanticized way. Old films rarely show the difficulties and hardships of everyday life, such as long queues at government offices, housing struggles, and economic challenges. Instead, they often depict tidy streets, stylish clothes, and polite language. This idealized representation can create a distorted view of the past.
Egyptians in the past were not living in an "era of gold," as they also faced difficulties, such as high prices and economic struggles. They would compare their present to the past and nostalgically recall "the good old days." The value of money and prices were different back then, and what seems expensive today was relatively affordable in the past.
The article argues that the problem lies not in the time itself but in human perception. Each generation faces its own challenges and tends to view the past as more peaceful and enjoyable. As time passes, the present becomes the past, and the past becomes a memory, then a legend. Despite changes in clothing, dialects, and lifestyles, one thing remains constant: people feel that what they have today is less than what they had yesterday.
The solution is not to dwell on the past or try to turn back the clock. However, it's possible to regain some of what has been lost without reliving the past. This can be achieved by rediscovering values such as elegance, respect, calm dialogue, and a sense of time. By doing so, people can learn to live in the present without turning life into a daily struggle.
The article concludes that "the good old days" had their own set of worries and difficulties, but in different forms. The only certainty is that time passes, and humans remain the same, complaining about the present and nostalgic for the past. When listening to classic songs like "Bahlam Biak," people pause, reflecting on the old image of Egypt, not because they want to return to it but because they wish to find some of its serenity in the present.
Key points
- Egyptians reflect on changes in their country and themselves over time.
- The past is often romanticized, but it had its own set of challenges and difficulties.
- The solution is to regain lost values, such as elegance and respect, to improve life in the present.
