Today we talk about Between Souks and Malls: A Semiotic Reading of the Linguistic Landscape of Saudi Arabia, a book by Siham Alhaider published with our publishing house Europe Books.
Europe Books had the pleasure of interviewing the author Siham Alhaider to get to know her better, what was the moment that prompted her to the writing of her book Between Souks and Malls: A Semiotic Reading of the Linguistic Landscape of Saudi Arabia, as well as how she describes her writing style.
Below you can find our interview. Take a seat and enjoy your reading!!!
- What was the moment that prompted you to the writing of your book?
The moment that prompted me to write my book is still alive within me, fueled by my deep pride in my country and a desire to represent it in the best possible way. I’ve always dreamed of this moment, and now it has arrived! As the first Saudi woman to author a book on the linguistic landscape of Saudi Arabia, I am thrilled to present a comprehensive narrative that spans the past, present, and future. This passion drives me to contribute more, especially when my beloved country is the recipient. Writing now carries a significant responsibility, for it entails representing my nation to the world. Through my work, people will begin to see Saudi Arabia through my lens and what I present. Saudi Arabia is rich with heritage sites and cultural landmarks that deserve exploration and official recognition on the UNESCO list. For me, this journey didn’t conclude with the writing of this book; rather, it began here. It is a profound accountability when you become a representative, as the world starts seeing your country through you. This realization motivates me even more to ensure that my words and actions positively reflect the essence and beauty of Saudi Arabia.
- What characteristics your audience should have to appreciate your book?
I expect my audience to possess a keen appreciation for authenticity and beauty. As the saying goes, “beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” and I firmly believe in this notion. While we all observe the same world, our perceptions vary greatly. This is precisely the vision I aim to convey in my book. It is filled with signs and images capturing past and present moments, which I interpret in a way that may resonate or spark debate among readers. The past segment of the book delves into the fascinating heritage and culture of Saudi Arabia, with a special focus on the historic Souk Althulatha’a. This cultural landmark, the oldest market in Asir region in Saudi Arabia, holds numerous narratives and practices that are crucial to document and pass on to future generations. It is a treasure trove of traditions and history. The present section explores the dynamic changes in Saudi life, examining various global influences as seen through ethnographic contexts. This part highlights the ongoing evolution in Saudi society, reflecting transformations in lifestyle and cultural interactions. Through this exploration, I hope to engage readers in a dialogue about how we perceive and value our ever-changing world, encouraging them to appreciate the depth and richness of Saudi culture.
- How would you describe your writing style?
I wish to describe my writing style as simple and accessible. I crafted the book with diverse audiences in mind, ensuring it is suitable for both academic and non-academic readers. My goal is to make the content inclusive for everyone. However, I do place emphasis on the academic side by including “questions for thought” at the end of each chapter, designed to engage students and encourage deeper reflection. In my view, languages are akin to codes—each person’s unique way of transmitting messages to others. These codes can manifest in various forms: visual, audio, sensory, numeric, spatial, and more. It’s important not to confine code expression, as time brings change, and with it, new codes inevitably emerge. I embrace change over static states, encapsulated in my personal mantra, “challenge the change,” or my double CC. I thrive on the dynamic nature of life, invigorated by continuous change and action. This perspective fuels my passion for writing and keeps my spirit alive. Through my work, I hope to inspire readers to appreciate the fluidity of language and the ever-evolving landscape of human expression.
- How did you choose the title of your book?
I aimed for my book title to be both intriguing and descriptive of its contents. The intrigue lies in the juxtaposition of Souks and Malls, symbolizing the contrast between the past and the present. This comparison serves to engage readers by highlighting how traditional marketplaces and modern shopping centers coexist and reflect cultural shifts. The title also conveys the essence of the book, which narrates the rich history of the Souk. It shines a light on the vibrant culture and heritage of Saudi Arabia, with a particular emphasis on my hometown, the Asir region, where the book is set. This focus not only honors the region’s unique traditions but also connects readers to its evolving story. Choosing a title that encapsulated these themes was essential to me, as it reflects the book’s dual mission: to educate and captivate. By exploring the dynamic interplay between past and present, the title invites readers to delve into a narrative that celebrates the enduring spirit of Saudi culture while acknowledging the transformative power of modernity. Ultimately, the title serves as a gateway into a deeper understanding of the cultural landscape of my beloved country.
- Are you working on a new writing project you can tell us about?
I continually strive to engage myself in various projects, ensuring I’m always creatively stimulated. As soon as one project concludes, I dive into the next without delay, as staying busy is essential for me. To answer your question, yes, I am currently working on a new writing project that I hope will come to fruition soon. However, I prefer not to reveal too many details about unfinished projects. I believe in nurturing ideas privately until they are fully formed and ready to be shared with the world. This approach allows me to develop my work without external pressures, giving each project the focus and attention it deserves. While I can’t provide specifics at the moment, I’m excited about the direction this new endeavor is taking. I appreciate your interest and look forward to sharing more when the time is right. Thank you for your support and enthusiasm.
Europe Books thanks the author Siham Alhaider once again for taking the time and answering our questions. We are really pleased to have walked alongside her on the editorial path that led to the publication of her book Between Souks and Malls: A Semiotic Reading of the Linguistic Landscape of Saudi Arabia. We wish her the best of luck for her book and for her future works.
To you, my dear reader, I hope that this book captures your interest and curiosity and that it will also be a source of discussion and reflection regarding the Saudi world and culture full of beauties, treasures of the past but which is also experiencing an important change thanks to the global influences that are transforming it.
So, my dear reader, all I have to say is to enjoy your reading!
Your Editor!