Five Years Living in Elahiyeh, Fereshteh Street

One day, amidst my growing complaints to my mother about my father’s lifestyle, he found it necessary to have a heart-to-heart with me. While planting a tree in our garden, he shared a profound insight: 'In society, there are only two kinds of people; lambs and wolves. Lambs are perpetually preyed upon and killed, whereas wolves hunt and advance.' He then posed a stark question: 'Do you wish to be a lamb or a wolf?' Initially bewildered by his abrupt query, I pondered before responding, 'Perhaps something in-between.' His reply was swift and certain, 'There is no middle ground, only these two. Show mercy and you’ll be devoured in this world.' This conversation was a turning point in understanding my father’s complex character - his occasional harshness and rudeness, juxtaposed with moments of thoughtfulness. He maintained his gentle treatment of others, revealing a nuanced perspective of the constant struggle and conflict in human interactions. This book is my endeavour to document the events and experiences I have personally witnessed. It serves as a tapestry of social history, reflecting the intricate dance between the ’lambs’ and ’wolves’ of our society. My purpose in writing this book is only to record the events and things that I’ve witnessed with my own eyes.