The city of Jahilia is built entirely of sand, its structures formed of the desert whence it rises. It is a sight to wonder at: walled, four-gated, the whole of it a miracle worked by its citizens, who have learned the trick of transforming the fine white dune-sand of those forsaken parts, - the very stuff of inconstancy, - the quintessence of unsettlement, shifting, treachery, lack-of-form, - and have turned it, by alchemy, into the fabric of their newly invented permanence.

πŸ“– Salman Rushdie

🌍 Indian  |  πŸ‘¨β€πŸ’Ό Novelist

πŸŽ‚ June 19, 1947
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The city of Jahilia is a remarkable creation, entirely made from the sand of its surrounding desert. This unique location features impressive structures, complete with walls and four gates, showcasing the ingenuity of its inhabitants. They have managed to convert the unstable, fine white sand into a lasting architectural wonder, which stands in stark contrast to the transient nature of its material. This transformation represents a profound achievement, symbolizing the citizens' ability to impose stability on a landscape known for its unpredictability.

In Jahilia, the act of building with something as fleeting as sand reflects a deeper philosophical notion of creating permanence in an impermanent world. The citizens' mastery of this challenging environment serves as an example of resilience and adaptability. Their efforts illustrate a human desire to forge lasting legacies despite the shifting, treacherous elements all around, turning the essence of instability into a foundation upon which their community thrives.

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April 09, 2025

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