Examples Of Figurative Language In The Kite Runner

Figurative language can help to make a novel even better than it is in so many ways. It makes the details in the story come to life for the reader and it creates an impression on the reader, as well. Hosseini uses the different types of figurative language, like similes and metaphors, to display several different concepts in this dynamic story. In the novel The Kite Runner, figurative language is used in order to show the difference between Pashtuns and Hazaras, to reveal the war and fighting in Afghanistan, and to display the power that Amir and Baba have while also enhancing the experience of the story for the reader.

During The Kite Runner, Hosseini uses figurative language to display the vast differences between the two ethnic groups.

They make use of their power in different ways. Baba is physically strong and it is told that he can command the attention of a room just by walking in. Amir has power in a different way. He is a part of the Pashtun ethnic group, like Baba, but Amir uses his Pashtun ethnicity as a way to gain power. Pashtuns are able to hold power over Hazaras because they have more opportunities. They can recieve an education and Amir holds power over his servant and friend, Hassan, in that particular way. Since most Hazaras are unable to be educated, they are usually illiterate. This leads Hassan to want Amir to read to him, since he cannot do it himself. While reading, Amir tends to use his knowledge of words as a way to tease Hassan because he does not understand the meanings of certain words. Amir always feels guilty after, “But there [is] something fascinating- albeit in a sick way- about teasing Hassan. Kind of like when [they] used to play insect torture. Except now [Hassan] was the ant and [Amir] was holding the magnifying glass” (Hosseini 47). This metaphor compares Hassan to an ant that Amir can control and manipulate. This ant is far smaller than the person holding the magnifying glass, so the person with the magnifying glass feels like he/she is holding the power. Amir uses Hassan’s lack of knowledge and education to play games with him. He finds amusement in seeing what Hassan does not know. Amir is able to make Hassan believe whatever he wants. His power of knowledge and education is displayed by Hosseini in metaphors. Another type of power is the physical power Baba has. Amir has often been told by his father’s friends that Baba once wrestled a black bear with his own bare hands. Nobody ever doubted this story because it is easy to tell how strong Baba is just by looking at him. Amir thinks