| 释义 |
Samarra2|səˈmɑːrə|
The name of a city in northern Iraq, used in phr. an appointment in Samarra to indicate the inevitability of death. Also transf.
In Maugham's play (see quot. 1933), the servant to a merchant meets Death in the market-place at Baghdad, and flees to Samarra to escape his clutches. When questioned by the merchant, Death explains his surprise at seeing the servant, replying as in quot. 1933.
1933W. S. Maugham Sheppey iii. 112, I was astonished to see him in Bagdad, for I had an appointment with him tonight in Samarra. 1934J. O'Hara (title) Appointment in Samarra. 1971A. Price Alamut Ambush xi. 133 He had ridden out innocently..and had set up his own appointment in Samarra. 1973Times 28 June 16/8 All Mr Heath's justified complacency as he watches the Labour Party destroying itself will avail him little if, come the next General Election, his own rendezvous with destiny turns out to be an appointment in Samarra. |