Symbols in The Kite Runner Explained

May 21, 2025

Symbols in Khaled Hosseini's "The Kite Runner"

Introduction

  • Overview of symbolism in "The Kite Runner"
  • Importance of analyzing symbols for deeper understanding of story and characters
  • Focus on five main symbols in the novel

1. The Monster in the Lake

  • Context: Hassan tells Amir about a dream before the kite fighting tournament.
  • Dream Details: In the dream, everyone fears a monster in the lake but Amir and Hassan swim out to prove there is none.
  • Symbolic Interpretations:
    • Asaf as the monster (bully who rapes Hassan).
    • Amir's jealousy could symbolize the monster.
    • Amir may himself represent the monster.
    • Cheer from Babar and Rahim Khan may indicate their oblivion to Amir's jealousy.

2. The Pomegranate Tree

  • Significance: Represents friendship between Amir and Hassan.
  • Events:
    • Initially a place of bonding, reading, and play.
    • Post-rape, Amir's resentment leads him to throw pomegranates at Hassan.
  • Symbolism:
    • Transition from brotherly love to bitterness and anger.
    • Hassan's act of crushing pomegranates symbolizes loyalty and defiance.

3. The Cleft Lip

  • Significance: Represents Hassan's social status and separation from Amir.
  • Events:
    • Babar pays for Hassan's surgery, symbolizing his secret love for Hassan.
  • Later Events:
    • Amir receives a split lip, linking him back to Hassan.
  • Symbolism:
    • Amir's scar represents his redemption and connection to Hassan’s legacy.

4. Baba and the Bear

  • Symbolism:
    • Baba is rumored to have wrestled a bear, symbolizing strength but also intimidation.
  • Duality of Baba:
    • Publicly generous (building an orphanage) vs. private shame (infidelity).
  • Amir's Revelation:
    • As Amir is beaten, he dreams of wrestling the bear, reflecting his internal struggle and connection to Baba's dual nature.

5. The Flying of Kites

  • Overview: Most prominent symbol, representing beauty, violence, betrayal, and redemption.
  • Events:
    • Amir and Hassan's bond during kite flying; their roles in the tournament.
    • Amir’s inaction during Hassan’s rape corrupts the symbol of the kite.
  • Final Acts:
    • Amir's eventual kite flying with Sohrab represents redemption.
    • Kites symbolize hope for Afghan immigrants in California, reflecting a future beyond trauma.

Conclusion

  • Reflection on the multi-layered symbols in "The Kite Runner"
  • Encouragement for further exploration and understanding of the text.