THE KITE RUNNER- KHALED HOSSEINI

                                                      'For you, a thousand times over'

  

  

          The Kite Runner is a story narrated by the protagonist Amir. The plot revolves around the journey of Amir and Hassan. Their lives in the once, beautiful and now wartorn Afghanistan. A riveting tale where the author uses his unique ability to connect people through fiction. 

           As I read this book, I came across various instances that showed the kind of kinship that existed between Amir and Hassan. Where despite innate differences of caste, religion, families, history and customs, Amir and Hassan deeply affected each other's lives. What I enjoyed most about the book is the splendid depiction of details. Khaled Hosseini, a meticulous craftsman indeed! 

   

         The foundation of the story is laid in the kinship of Amir and Hassan. It is made more fascinating by the characters, each remarkable and unique in their own ways. The book also contains wise lessons to learn. One of the characters that deeply influenced me is the character of 'Baba', Amir's father. Baba taught me, through his 'believe in oneself' principle that there is simply nothing to be afraid of, in life. Courage is all you need. I wouldn't exaggerate; wouldn't use 'laaf', the Afghan tendency to exaggerate. But simply state Baba's character as an epitome of bravery and goodness.

        Although Baba does not lead a perfect life, his demeanor affects Amir deeply. Makes him long for his baba's love. Amir in turn has a difficult journey. His struggle to be seen and not looked at, to be listened to and not heard. To reflect on whether Hassan was a 'friend'? Or was it hurting his 'nang and namoos', his pride and honour to consider Hassan one? To cut lose his pain and longing...for salvation...redemption. Amir makes choices which can't be stated whether right or wrong. But such, that he is haunted by his conscience, tormented by his disgust for himself. No forgiveness, for himself. As for Hassan, his guileless devotion, his unquestionable loyalty and endless sacrifices for Amir shows of his unspeakable faithfulness to Friendship. Friendship that makes him the lamb that is slain. Friendship and more...

      In a tale that is harrowing and insightful, I saw Afghanistan as a different place. A place where Amir and Hassan's childhood existed. A place where laughter, peace and hope existed. I never truly imagined Afghanistan to be like this. 

      Khaled Hosseini's 'The Kite Runner' has challenged loyalty. A relationship between a father and a son, which changes the lives of so many around them. But 'zendagi migzara', life goes on. Is there hope for Afghanistan? Is there an existence of God, in times of despair and desperate needs? Will Amir find his redemption or is his life a certainty of turmoil, or a turmoil of uncertainty?

        I strongly recommend The Kite Runner, so that you would witness the irony that is life, goodness of family and peace of redemption. Let the author take you through a journey that is good enough for you to be thankful for peace and heartbreaking, to value friendship! 

"For you, a thousand times over" I heard myself say.

Then I turned and ran.

I ran. A grown man running with a swarm of screaming children. But I didn't care. I ran with the wind blowing in my face, and smile as wide as the valley of Panjsher on my lips.

I ran.