Naguib Mahfouz's "Palace Walk" conveys a powerful idea about bad news through the metaphor of a stinging smell. This vivid imagery reflects how unpleasant information can permeate our lives, lingering and affecting us deeply. Just as one cannot ignore a strong odor, bad news can invade our thoughts and emotions, leaving a lasting impact on our mental state.

The quote serves as a reminder of how negative events or information can create an atmosphere of discomfort. It illustrates the pervasive nature of troubling news, suggesting that it can disrupt our sense of peace just like an offensive smell disrupts our sense of well-being. In the context of the novel, this resonates with the characters' experiences as they navigate personal and societal challenges.