The Kite Runner: Jealousy

Zoe and I have chosen to read the book The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. This is a historical fiction novel that takes place in Kabul, Afghanistan and is told in the perspective of a wealthy Pashtun boy named Amir. So far, a prominent element of this book is the complicated relationship between the Amir and his robust father. Amir goes into great depth describing his father, Baba, who is a highly respected, accomplished, and admirable man. Amir desires approval from his father and looks up to him at a high standard. He tries very hard to please Baba but is at many times rejected. Zoe noted how Amir demonstrates feelings of jealousy when Baba shows any affection towards his friend Hassan. Hassan is Baba’s house servant’s son and Amir’s closest
companion. Even though Amir is constantly seeking acceptance, he has a hidden feeling of hatred towards his father. Both Zoe and I noticed that Amir’s feeling for his father are constantly shifting. At times Amir is longing for moments of intimacy with Baba, but within a few minutes he could be oozing with disgust. I find this father-son relationship to be very intriguing. A quote from the book perfectly portrays this love-hate connection, “Most days I worshipped Baba with an intensity approaching the religious. But right then, I wished I could open my veins and drain his cursed blood from my body” (32). I am excited to see how this conflict unfolds throughout the story. Thus far, Zoe and I have really enjoyed this book. The author does a tremendous job describing the emotions and events that are occurring. Although the main plot has yet to begin, I appreciate how descriptive and engaging this book has been so far.