Mini Essay #5
In the ending of The Kite Runner, Amir is revealed to have been the eponymous character all along, as he himself runs after the kite captured by Sohrab. No longer content with using actions to gain the approval of others, as he did with his father, he has learned to show love proactively by running after the kite himself. The act of showing love is now a measure of self-worth, and Amir has learned to act on his own initiative. This shows that he values relationships for the inherent joy that they bring, rather than as a medium of approval-seeking.
Previously, Amir valued himself only through the eyes of his father and society, with his kite trophy and social status respectively. In constantly seeking Baba’s approval, he ultimately failed to absorb his most valuable lesson: that he must “stand” on his own. Even when marrying Soraya, he only did so to make his father proud and probably a general desire to fit in with social expectations. When Soraya demonstrated honesty through her confession, he did not celebrate the opportunity to create a real emotional connection but retreated further into his status-paradigm by reacting with jealousy.
Amir also gave up his friendship with Hassan because he felt he could never earn his approval after the latter was raped before him. This was ironic not only because Hassan gave his love to Amir unconditionally, but also because Hassan was his half-brother all along. Instead of tossing pomegranates at him, Amir could have had one moment of honesty and been immediately forgiven so that other aspects of their relationship could be explored. Now, with Sohrab, Amir is able to take the initiative and define his role in the relationship as a caretaker and uncle, having realized that the act of running is more important than the actual kite.
Reflection
Personally, the kite runner started off as a bit dull and boring. However, as the story progressed I became progressively more invested. I believe that it was the story and the symbols that the author uses to foreshadow different events that really made the story come to life despite the ending being a little bit cheesy.
Rough Draft
notes: Amir was the kite runner all along Amir was ashamed because Hassan was so inherently pure Amir was jealous that Hassan could act on his relationships with such conviction Amir has learned that the value of life is measured by valuing others
Previously, Amir valued himself only through the eyes of his father and society, with his kite trophy and social status respectively. In constantly seeking Baba’s approval, he ultimately failed to absorb his most valuable lesson: that he must “stand” on his own. Even when marrying Soraya, he only did so to make his father proud and probably a general desire to fit in with social expectations. When Soraya demonstrated honesty through her confession, he did not celebrate the opportunity to create a real emotional connection but retreated further into his status-paradigm by reacting with jealousy.Even when marrying Soraya, he only did so to make his father proud and probably a general desire to fit in with social expectations.
