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The Djinn in the Nightingale's Eye


Synopsis


**FEATURING THE STORY THAT INSPIRED NEW FILM THREE THOUSAND YEARS OF LONGING**

A S Byatt's fairy tales and fables are among the best-loved features of her fiction. Innumerable readers have asked for the two marvellous fairy tales in POSSESSION - 'The Glass Coffin' and 'Gode's Tale' of the Breton Naie des Trepasses - to be published separately.

Here they take their place with three other stories with medieval and middle eastern settings. The title story, 'The Djinn and the Nightingale's Eye', a long story about an Englishwoman in Turkey who unwittingly releases a genie from his bottle, is a reflection on women's lives, on magic and on the power of storytelling itself, and has inspired the new film Three Thousand Years of Longing starring Idris Elba and Tilda Swinton.

A. S. Byatt

Summary



Chapter 1:

The first chapter of "The Djinn in the Nightingale's Eye" introduces us to the narrator, a woman named Philippa who has recently been gifted an old book by her employer, Mrs. Sharifa. The book is titled "The Gaze of the Gazelle" and is a collection of Arabic tales. As Philippa begins to read the book, she becomes enthralled by one particular story about a djinn, or a supernatural being, in the form of a Nightingale who grants wishes.

Real example: In the modern world, many people are fascinated by supernatural stories and creatures. Just like Philippa, readers often become engrossed in such stories and are intrigued by the possibility of encountering such beings.

Chapter 2:

In this chapter, Philippa meets with her friend Roger and discusses the story of the djinn with him. Roger is dismissive of the stories and believes that they are simply myths and legends. He suggests that Philippa stop reading the book and instead focus on more important matters like her career. However, Philippa is determined to continue reading and exploring the story of the djinn.

Real example: In many cultures, there are stories and legends surrounding supernatural beings such as djinns. While some people may dismiss these tales as mere superstition, others, like Philippa, are drawn to them and see the value in exploring such tales and their meanings.

Chapter 3:

Philippa continues to read the story of the djinn, learning that in order to summon the Nightingale, one must recite a specific incantation. As she reads the incantation out loud, she is surprised when the djinn appears before her. The djinn introduces herself as Fatima and grants Philippa three wishes.

Real example: In some cultures, there are rituals or specific prayers that are believed to summon supernatural beings and grant wishes. Just like Philippa, people may become intrigued by the possibility of contacting such beings and may try to perform these rituals or recite these prayers.

Chapter 4:

Philippa is initially hesitant to make her wishes, unsure of what she truly wants. She decides to use her first wish to become more beautiful, hoping that it will bring her happiness and confidence. However, when the djinn grants her wish, Philippa realizes that beauty may not be enough to make her truly happy.

Real example: In the pursuit of beauty, many people can relate to Philippa's hesitation and desire to be more attractive. However, as Philippa realizes, beauty is not the key to true happiness and satisfaction.

Chapter 5:

For her second wish, Philippa wishes for wisdom, hoping that it will help her make better decisions in her life. The djinn grants her wish, but Philippa begins to feel overwhelmed by the immense knowledge and insights she now possesses.

Real example: In real life, people may often seek knowledge and wisdom in order to gain a better understanding of the world and make more informed decisions. However, as Philippa learns, too much knowledge can be as much of a burden as it is a blessing.

Chapter 6:

For her final wish, Philippa wishes for the ability to make her own decisions and be in control of her own life. The djinn grants her wish and leaves her with a final warning about the dangers of wishing for too much power.

Real example: This last wish touches upon a common theme in literature and real life, the desire for control over one's own life. Like Philippa, people may wish for the power to make their own decisions, but must also be aware of the consequences that come with such power.

Epilogue:

In the epilogue, Philippa reflects on her wishes and how they have affected her life. She also discovers a valuable lesson about the power of words and wishes, and the importance of being content with what one has instead of constantly seeking more.

Real example: This final chapter serves as a reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that true happiness and fulfillment can come from within, rather than external beauty or power. It also highlights the importance of being careful with our words and wishes as they can have a significant impact on our lives.