Themes motifs and symbols
A Finger had to be cut, to save the hand
This line of the text conveys the central idea of the novel in which the idea of sacrifice has been beautifully portrayed. The author tries to draw our attention towards the agony and misery of the father and brother of Pari who send her away for her better future and also the better future of their family. The story that is told by Abdullah’s father holds a very big significance and is symbolic of the love and affection coupled with deep sense of separation and helplessness. Abdullah’s father makes him aware of the striking reality of their lives through the story and the central idea of the whole story finds its place here. Abdullah who shares a tight bond of love and affection with his sister sacrifices her belongingness for her better future and life of prosperity. Just like Baba Ayub in the story gets separated from his beloved son, Abdullah was also to part with his sister. The journey of Abdullah from Shadbagh to Kabul holds upon him a test; a test to make him strong enough to leave Pari at his Uncle’s place.
The Div of the story signifies the difficulties that one has to face in one’s life and once these difficulties are surpassed, there exists satisfaction and peace in one’s mind believing that his loved ones are happy and enjoying their lives to the fullest. Parwana in the story once says “It had to be her. I am sorry, Abdullah. She had to be the one.” And soon after this the author doesn’t fails to mention “The finger cut, to save the hand.”
Abdullah tries very hard to bring a smile on Pari’s face and feels pleased in even exchanging his shoes for the peacock feather for her sister’s collection. The story in the beginning of the chapter is symbolic of pain and suffering that one experiences, when he has to part with his beloved ones and also signifies that the need of basic amenities is fundamental to the existence of humans. If the much adored ones are