From The Republic of False Truths, which will be published next month by Knopf. Translated from the Arabic.

“If a worker wants to demonstrate in Tahrir Square, I don’t give a damn. But if a worker wants to demonstrate in the factory, I will have no mercy on him.” Essam Shaalan seemed to be in an excitable mood. The factory’s managers and department heads sat facing him. One said, “We can’t allow any worker to stir up chaos.” Another said, “Anyone who doesn’t care about the bread on his table deserves what he gets.” Essam ignored their comments and…