Rahim Khan's assertion in the opening chapter that "there is a way to be good again" indicates that Amir has not yet atoned, and thus his return to Afghanistan will play an important part in his redemption.īaba's forgiveness of Hassan's admitted actions also serves as foreshadowing. With Hassan's leaving, readers know for certain that the rest of The Kite Runner is about Amir's attempt at atonement. The juxtaposition of Hassan's bravery with Amir's cowardice is a final contrast between the two characters.
Hassan's presence is a physical reminder thus, Hassan must be made to leave. Amir is wracked with guilt, and, when attempting to receive a physical punishment does not work, he needs to find another way of making life more endurable, more bearable. Even though, emotionally, we cringe at what Amir is doing, we logically realize that he is a thirteen-year-old attempting to deal with his views in an almost-impossible situation. It is one thing to be a passive observer of events and do nothing to attempt to stop them, but being an active participant in a wrongdoing is often considered even worse. The depths of Amir's desperate actions are revealed. Winning the kite fight has not changed Amir or his relationship with Baba. Amir describes this scene as if it were a movie, yet this movie has no happy ending.īaba's "half-hearted" invitation receives a "half-hearted" thank you from Amir, indicating that they are more alike than either is willing to notice or acknowledge. Unbeknownst to Baba, Amir realizes that Ali now knows the truth about what has happened and must have been convinced by Hassan to not accuse Amir.Īmir watches as Hassan and Ali pack all of their worldly belongings into one suitcase before Baba drives them to the bus station.
And Amir does not anticipate Baba forgiving Hassan.
Amir realizes that Hassan is sacrificing for him one last time. The next morning, when Hassan and Ali are shopping, Amir enters their living quarters and plants the watch and some money under Hassan's mattress.Īmir does not anticipate Hassan lying about stealing the money and watch. One night, he casually asks his father if he has seen his new watch. Although Amir receives a new copy of Shahnamah from Ali and Hassan, that generous gift is not enough for Amir to change his plans. The day after his birthday party, Amir feels as if all of his gifts - except the notebook from Rahim Khan - are blood money gifts.