What is the cover photo?

The cover photo is from my special passport for visiting Mecca only, issued when I was fourteen years old. My somber visage reflects the ordeals of my youth when I never expected any future beyond my bleak existence.

Why did you choose that font?

The font chosen for chapter headings is called Mason. Many have asked why I chose a Christian looking font for a Muslim book. Few people are aware of the historical relationship between the two religions. The architecture of medieval 7th and 8th century European cathedrals, particularly the arches and latticework, was inspired by Islamic mosques. This font symbolizes the common ground of cultures and suggests to the reader that the story of the book is deeper than just my life. It goes deep down to a culture that has turned into a medieval cult.

What is the significance of the Yellow, Dark Gray and Red website color?

The color palette of the site was purposely chosen. Yellow is the color of hate and sickness in Persian culture. To convey their anger or hate toward someone, people give that individual yellow roses or flowers. Since it is impolite to refuse a gift, it is a message to the recipient to change his or her manner.

Also, there is a fire ceremony that, despite being banned by the Iranian government, Persians hold dear and still perform privately every year on the Persian New Year, the last Wednesday of winter. Bushes are set on fire and people jump on them, chanting, "My yellowness to you; your redness to me.

"In this ceremony, red represents health and yellow represents sickness. In Persian culture, red is the color of war, bloodshed and Hell.

Gray is the color of inmate's clothing in Iran's prisons. It is also the mandatory color of the long raincoat uniform that schoolgirls must wear. Black is the color of the chadors and headscarves the Iranian government forces women to wear in public. Also, it is the color of mourning in Islam and it is scripted for mourning in religious books.

What is the symbol used on the cover page and throughout the web site?

Currently, the Iranian flag carries the shield-like logo displayed on the cover page of Living in Hell book and through out the book and the site. It is a stylistic Arabic word that the government of Iran translates as God or Allah.

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