Ryan C's Second Reaction

The next section of The Kite Runner shows Amir’s relationship with his father, and the extent to which that relationship has affected Amir. In this section Hosseini also alludes to the political situation of the country, as he mentions that the nation has shifted from a monarchy to a republic, which sounds nice, but can be deceiving. Amir clearly longs for his father’s affection and approval and is apparent throughout this part of the novel. For example, at one point, Amir wishes he had some scar on his face that his father could then sympathize for him, at the same time, Amir thinks his situation is unfair because he believes Hassan did not do anything to gain Baba’ affection, it was because he was born with a harelip. Furthermore, during the kite competition, Amir frequently thinks about Baba, whether or not he was rooting for Amir of cheering for him. Amir desperately wants to win the kite competition because Baba’s thinks Amir will win the tournament; consequently, Amir believes winning the competition is the key to Baba’s heart. So far, kites in the novel serve as several symbols. I was glad that Amir won the kite tournament; for once in his life he knows he will have the approval and affection of his father. Not only that, but Amir accomplished a goal that he set out for himself and worked very hard for. Also, at one point I was very proud of Amir, because after the competition, Amir was yelling with Hassan “We won! We won!” as opposed to  “I won! I won!”. At first, kites represent the only connection between Baba and Amir; however, at the end of this section, kites represent eh loss of innocence. The scene between Hassan and Assef could not have been predicted by anyone, I know I was both shocked and surprised. I was disappointed with Amir that he did not at least attempt to rescue Hassan from Assef because I know that Hassan would have stood up for Amir. The price that Amir paid for his father’s affection is the loss of Hassan’s innocence.