The latest book by one of North Africa's most successful post colonial writers Tahar Ben Jelloun, Leaving Tangier is set in Tangier, in the early 90s. The protagonist, Azel, is one of a group of young Moroccans who gather regularly in a seafront café to gaze at the lights on the Spanish coast glimmering in the distance. Facing a future with few prospects, their disillusionment is matched only by their desire to reach this paradise. At the brink of despair, Azel meets Miguel, a wealthy Spanish gallery-owner, who promises to take him to Barcelona, on condition that he becomes his lover. Seeing no other solution, Azel agrees and, leaving behind his girlfriend, embarks on a new life.