Naguib Mahfouz's "Children of Our Neighborhood" explores the theme of forgetfulness as a significant affliction in society. The phrase "The lesion of our neighborhood is forgetfulness" suggests that the community suffers from a collective inability to remember its past, traditions, and the lessons learned through experience. This forgetfulness can lead to a disconnect among the people, preventing them from fully understanding their identity and the implications of their actions within the social fabric.

This concept of forgetfulness resonates throughout the narrative, highlighting how it impacts relationships and communal bonds. As characters navigate their lives, the shadows of past events linger, even when they choose to ignore them. Mahfouz suggests that by acknowledging and confronting their history, the inhabitants of this neighborhood could foster a deeper connection with each other, ultimately leading to personal growth and societal healing.