Symbols In The Kite Runner

Throughout The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, the symbol of the kite represents the dynamic and ironic nature of Amir and Hassan’s friendship as well as the internal and external conflict surrounding protagonist Amir. The image of two fighting kites demonstrates the opposing personalities and statuses of the boys as well as Amir’s internal struggle regarding his desertion of Hassan. The graceful movements of the kite plague Amir’s previously serene childhood memories with regret and guilt because he is unable to separate the joy from the pain.
In addition to the emotional agony associated with it, the kite also causes physical pain. Hosseini consistently reminds the reader of Amir and Hassan’s “bloodied hands” (67) during the tournament. In Amir’s attempt to achieve victory, he uses his best friend Hassan as an assistant, charged with “[feeding] the line” (51) which ultimately cuts him. Although the kite may appear beautiful, it’s gliding motions aim to sever the lines of other kites and essentially the kite harms its own creators.
Born into a wealthy Pashtun family, Amir has access to a formal education as well as social acceptance. Despite his privilege, he believes that he is a disappointment in his

Amir is the “glass-coated cutting line” (50). His betrayal is quick and, similar to that of an attacking kite, he severs his brotherly ties by turning his “back to the alley” (77). In addition, the line always lags behind the kite, demonstrating Amir’s perceived feeling of his position in the friendship. The actual kite, made of “bamboo, glue, string, and paper” (50) symbolizes Hassan’s personality. He is unwavering, straightforward, and honest. The kite itself never strikes another player, but rather allows the cutting line to perform the feat. In the end, the participants in the tournament endeavor to capture the final kite, their bloody hands abandoning the