Amir and Hassan

One thing I like about Hosseini is that he never lets a reader get too comfortable or hopeful. In other words, when something magnificent is happening, like Hassan smiling about winning, Hosseini throws in an abrupt sentence stating how he will not laugh for twenty six years. Not only do these type of sentences foreshadow events that will probably be discussed later on in the book, but they change the reader’s mod dramatically from one instance to the next. The sentences serve as a sort of reminder: the book is not intended to be a joyous journey.

                It’s interesting how Amir is solely dedicated on making his father proud and is mean to Hassan because he thinks Baba likes Hassan better. Amir makes fun of Hassan and tries to put him down in order to make himself feel superior, so he can give his father a reason for being proud of him. His obsession for making his father love him is what led me to lose all my respect for Amir.  I understand that Amir is only twelve years old, but you never leave a true friend stranded when he is in danger. Hassan was surrounded by three other guys, who wanted nothing else, but hurt him. Yet, Amir was frozen. This is still understandable though; Amir does not want to get beaten up either. But as soon as Assef forced Hassan to pull down his pants, I do not care what happens to you, you do not let your friend, even if he is not your best friend undergo that humiliation or experience. Even if you get knocked unconscious, you stand up for your friend and defend him.  When Amir decided to not intervene, my respect for him was gone. The worst part is that he looks away, demonstrating how great of a coward he is.

                Also, I became extremely aggravated every time Amir brought up the blue kite. How is it possible that your so called “best friend” is about to be jumped, and your worrying about a stupid kite. This just shows how spoiled and self-centered Amir really is. Nevertheless, the part that angered me the most was the end of this chapter. Somehow, Amir gets exactly what he wants. It all works out perfectly for him, while Hassan has just gone through a terrible traumatizing experience.