Abd el-Salam al-Ujayli was born in 1918 in the northern Syrian city of al-Riqqa, on the Euphrates River. A physician by training, he started a clinic in his home town where he still practices. He was elected to the Syrian Parliament in 1947. He has held several ministerial portfolios, including those of culture, foreign affairs, and information.

Al-Ujayli is also a prominent literary figure in the Arab world. He has penned more than thirty-five literary works in various genres, as well as scientific papers. His works have been translated into more than twelve languages; he is a frequent participant in international literary and scientific conferences and a seasoned traveler.

"The Lanterns of Seville" is the first English-language translation of this story.