In "Children of Our Neighborhood" by Naguib Mahfouz, the narrative explores the societal perceptions of single women, highlighting the stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding their independence. The phrase "Not more dangerous than a single woman" reflects a deep-seated fear of female autonomy, suggesting that society often vilifies women who choose to remain single, attributing to them a perceived threat to traditional values.

The book delves into the complexities of identity and relationships within the community, examining how these views affect the lives of the characters. Mahfouz uses the experiences of single women to challenge the norms and question the safety depicted by societal expectations, ultimately revealing that the real danger lies in the rigid attitudes towards women's choices.