Insults are the business of the court.

The quote "Insults are the business of the court." by Naguib Mahfouz offers a subtle yet sharp critique of power structures, particularly those found within government or royal courts. Mahfouz, a Nobel Prize-winning Egyptian novelist, often explored themes of authority, justice, and morality in his works. In this statement, he suggests that within the confines of political power or bureaucracy, insults, manipulation, and verbal attacks are not only common—they are part of how the system functions.

This quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the toxic nature of politics, where ego, ambition, and control often override civility and fairness. In the court—symbolizing the seat of power—insults serve as weapons to assert dominance, silence dissent, or demonstrate superiority. Mahfouz uses the term "business" ironically, implying that this behavior is so routine in such environments that it becomes normalized, even expected.

In the broader context of Mahfouz’s literary work, especially in novels like Palace Walk and The Cairo Trilogy, he often portrays how individuals navigate social hierarchies and the sometimes corrupt mechanisms of power. This quote reflects his understanding of how language and disrespect are employed strategically in political arenas—not out of emotion, but as calculated tools to maintain influence.

Ultimately, Mahfouz’s quote invites readers to reflect on the nature of authority and how those in positions of power often weaponize speech. It’s a reminder that in such environments, insults are not merely personal attacks—they are part of a larger game of control, performance, and political survival.