Thursday, May 1, 2008

Abdjellih and the Musician

I have often wanted to take pictures of people - except I'm rather nervous of asking them.
Apparently, years ago there was a camera that was angled somehow - but that would be a little like spying and therefore not a good idea.



Anyway, Abdjellih, who lives a little further down derb Djedid was happy to have his photo taken.
Today I will print out copies for him.
We first met him two years ago.
Like the Ancient Mariner, 'he stoppeth one in three'. Actually, in his case, pretty much everyone.
He sits on his front step and jumps up and greets you warmly. "Howareyou?Howareyou". In English.
Much shaking of hands. Much greeting in French, English and Arabic.
Last year, just after Eid el Kabir, he invited us in to meet his mother who was working in the kitchen on their slaughtered ram.



He used to be clean-shaven and wear jeans. Now he has a full beard and wears a djellahbah.
He has a brother who might be his twin.



Yesterday afternoon, when I was out buying Rheumix, a cold remedy, for Robert (how can you have a cold in May in Marrakech?), two musicians arrived outside our door.
They were playing the flute and the local children were singing.



I gave them both a small tip, but only the flautist wanted his photo taken.

12 comments:

Muriel said...

I love your blog!!

Anonymous said...

I love the photos of the people. If I were there, I'd like to learn how to play the flute. ;-)

Paz

High Desert Diva said...

Nothing like meeting someone over a slaughtered ram!

I think I'd rather wear a djellahbah...looks much cooler than jeans.

sukipoet said...

Totally cool photos. I love seeing people too but understand the lackof desire so folks have about being in a blog. Suki

Tess Kincaid said...

Oh, Elizabeth, that last picture is priceless! :)

carolyn said...

I've never plucked up the courage to ask if someone minded their photograph taken, well done.

Frank Gardner said...

I know what you mean about taking photos of people. From a distance it seems like it is fair game, but up close you need to ask permission.
Some people find it easy, but I don't like to intrude on a person's privacy.
Great to meet your neighbor.

Suburbia said...

They have such characterful faces.
A cold in May? What is the temperature like about now?

Elizabeth said...

Totally cool, love your blog! Nice photos.

this is my patch said...

I am sure all the locals must see you coming with your camera, by now! x

Ming the Merciless said...

Thanks for IDing the dogwood for me.

Love the photos of people and the local scene in Marrakesh. Like you, I'm uncomfortable taking photos of people on the street too.

My Castle in Spain said...

Great shots !! I assume little by little, people you often meet the medina will want their picture taken!