Many of the characters in The Kite
Runner undergo transformations of some sort.
Amir grows into a responsible young man after his move to
California. He marries, becomes a successful author, and carries on a loving
relationship with his father. His transformation only becomes complete, however, when he
returns to Afghanistan to retrieve his nephew, Sohrab.
Baba's change is a more drastic one, leaving behind his
wealth and power in Kabul for life as a poor working man in America.
Hassan is transformed when he leaves Baba's house after
being accused of theft. He learns about betrayal but he forgives Amir and goes on to
marry and raise a young son. He returns to Baba's house to live with Rahim Khan in the
hope that he will see his friends again one day. Soraya is
transformed from a druggie to a housewife. Assef changes
from a spoiled rich kid to a murderous Taliban leader.
Sohrab, who first enjoys a poor but happy life with his
parents, becomes a sexual playtoy to the Taliban before being rescued by Amir and
reverting to life in California.
Perhaps the best quote
regarding transformation comes from Rahim Khan, who knows that the secrets in Amir's
past can never be settled until Amir forgives himself. Rahim tells Amir in a telephone
call that
There is a way to be good
again.
Rahim
realizes that Amir's return to his homeland to find his nephew Sohrab will complete his
transformation into an honorable man.
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