Allusion & Symbolism of the Kite Runner

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Allusion and Symbolism Allusion and symbolism are significant devices found in most literature. Allusions are an expressions made to call something to mind by mentioning it upfront. Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. Symbolism and allusions give stories a deeper meaning; making readers think and give their own interpretation. These literal devices have been used since the beginning of time. For example, when Adam and Eve pick the apple from the tree. It can symbolize taking the easier way and not going the harder route. In Chapter nine of the novel The Kite Runner, the protagonist, Amir says: “I stepped back and all I saw was rain through windowpanes that looked like melting silver.” Rain and melting silver are used as a symbol and allusion pointing towards the sadness and guilt felt by Amir. Melting silver is an illusion that refers to the Bible’s use of silver as a symbol for redemption. Redemption is the action of being saved from sin. In Chapter 7 Amir watches Hassan get rapped and does not do anything about it. In chapter 9, Amir tries to free himself of the guilt by getting rid of his dad’s servants, Hassan and his father, Ali. Hassan is a part of the household, so Amir can never escape him completely. Amir thinks if he can get rid of them he will not feel the guilt of watching Hassan get rapped. Amir plants his new watch and cash under Hassan’s mattress. He tells Baba that Hassan stole them, and when Ali and Hassan return, Baba asks Hassan if he stole the money and the watch. To Amir’s surprise, Hassan says he did. “My heart sank and I almost blurted out the truth.” Amir realizes Hassan saw him in the ally getting rapped, and he also realized that Amir was setting him up now. Baba forgives Hassan, but Ali says they must leave. The act of being saved from this sin is huge because Amir thinks if he doesn’t see them anymore

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