Today marked the end of the conference and the prospect of a morning passed in bed later than 06:30.

Of course, Sod’s Law dictates that for the next two weeks – when I shall be free to arise at a more reasonable hour – my body clock will jerk into action at 6.

Otherwise, the conference was superbly organized and the research diverse; however, it was this morning’s panel that provoked the most interest.

In particular, a paper exploring the notion of Orientalism in the portrayal of Arabs in the post-9/11 media.

The conclusions were twofold: first, that the malign stereotypes associated with the Middle East persist due to the absence of a counter system of knowledge from the Middle East; and also that Islamic groups should demystify the faith.

Thus, the Middle East is deemed to be sluggish in its endeavors (or lack thereof) to refute such negativity and by avoiding dialogue it merely acquiesces to the will of the West.

Equally, while much is known about the Jewish and Catholic communities of the US, until 9/11 relatively little was known about the 6 million-strong Islamic community.

Accordingly, a focus needs to be trained on empowering through awareness.

Pretty cogent stuff, no?

On a more flippant note, I am loving: Tunisian food, architecture, hamams, blue, Boga, ojja, harissa, brik, Italian circles, Avenue Bourguiba, délice, sunrises over highrises, glimpses of the azure port, muezzins, delicate pastries, chamia, nut-brittle, icy water, honest cabbies and doors.

Yes. Doors:

Tomorrow: Carthage and Sidi Bou Said.