A myth parallel of the Arabian Nights.
Burton exists in a 23-year time loop lasting the length of Harun al-Rashid’s reign, from 786 to 809 CE. When Harun al-Rashid dies there are lamentations for 40 days after which the muezzins announce that Allah has sent the people a new Caliph, Harun al-Rashid.
The locals hope that they can majorly participate in the adventures of one of the people in this cycle (like Sinbad) so they can live forever young.
References
IW136