THE SHORT STORIES OF ZAKARIA TAMER

Without hesitation the sun answered: “I feel sad, and your song can help me cheer up.”

The songbird said: “I will sing for you, but first you have to pay me for my song.”

Taken aback, the sun said: “What do you mean? Is the songbird now a business-bird, selling your songs?”

Cross and scowling the songbird replied: “I’m not a bird in a cage. I live how I want and do as I please. I have decided to use my beautiful voice to make money.”

Softly the sun asked: “Why do you want money?” The songbird thought for a moment, then said: “Whoever has money is respected and loved.”

The sun said: “You are mistaken. Here am I. Everyone loves me and no one can live without me, even though I have no money.”

The songbird said: “Do not try to persuade me. I am determined to make lots of money.”

The sun asked: “What will you do with your money?” The songbird beamed: “I will buy a car to use instead of these dreadful wings.”

The sun laughed and, both mocking and disapproving, said: “A songbird riding a car? That would be a funny sight.”

The songbird was angry, consumed by the sun’s insult. Just then a crow screeched: “Qaaq qaaq. Shut up. Here comes a cop.”

A policeman approached at a fast past. He screamed at the songbird: “What is this racket? Who are you? A songbird? Come on, sing for me your best song or you are under arrest and I will put you in jail.”

This made the songbird feel a powerful love for his wings, and he smiled. At once, he took off flying, the policeman chasing behind, blowing on a whistle, trying to catch him.

The songbird flew until he was too tired to go further. He landed on a branch and looked around. He saw the green trees, the blue sky, the white, red, and yellow flowers, and he trem-

172 BANIPAL 53 – SUMMER 2015