Nawal El Saadawi utilizes symbolism of men’s finger nails through Firdaus’ repeated experiences to depict the correlation between a man’s wealth and assumed power. Firdaus’ first client, as a prostitute, has clean nails symbolizing his wealth, as he is able to afford her services. This is a drastic contrast to her past, where the nails of Bayoumi and her Uncle were filthy, reflecting their poor financial status. Next, the policeman, who rapes her, receives a vial description of his nails symbolizing his lack of wealth, as he offers a small amount of money and then proceeds to not pay. His unclean nails are reminiscent of everyman who had abused her, as they share the same filthy demeanor. While refusing the man for his unclean fingernails,