现代大学英语精读1—课本内容及翻译

Lesson One Half a Day Naguib Mahfous 1. I walked alongside my father, clutching hi

Lesson One Half aDay Naguib Mahfous 1. Iwalked alongside my father, clutching his right hand. All my clothes were new: the black shoes, the green school uniform, and the red cap. They did not make me happy, however, as this was the day I was to be thrown into school for the first time. 2. My mother stood at the window watching our progress, and Iturned towards her from time to time, hoping she would help. We walked along astreet lined with gardens, and fields planted with crops: pears, and date palms. 3. "Why school ?" Iasked my father. "What have Idone ?" 4. "I'm not punishing you, "he said, laughing. "School's not a punishment. It's aplace that makes useful men out of boys. Don' tyou want to be useful like your brothers?" 5. Iwas not convinced. Idid not believe there was really any good to be had in tearing me away from my home and throwing me into the huge, high-walled building. 6. When we arrived at the gate we could see the courtyard, vast and full of boys and girls. "Go in by yourself, "said my father, "and join them. Put asmile on your face and be agood example to others. " 7. Ihesitated and clung to his hand, but he gently pushed me from him. "Be aman, "he said. "Today you truly begin life. You will find me waiting for you when it's time to leave. " 8. Itook afew steps. Then the faces of the boys and girls came into view. Idid not know asingle one of them, and none of them knew me. Ifelt Iwas astranger who had lost his way. But then some boys began to glance at me in curiosity, and one of them came over and asked, "Who brought you?"