The Kite Runner Chapter 11 Flashcards

Baba's Perspectives and Opinions

• Baba identifies America, Britain, and Israel as the "three real men" in the world.
• He believes religion should be separate from politics.
• Describes Jimmy Carter as a "big-toothed cretin," alleging he spread more communism than Leonid Brezhnev.
• Celebrates Ronald Reagan by framing his picture in their home.

Baba and His Experiences in America

• Baba becomes upset when asked for ID at the grocery store while using a check.
• States that trust is scarce in America, remarking that "no one trusts anyone."
• Experiences cultural differences in credit systems; mentions alternative forms like tree branches.
• Nostalgic for the fields of Jalalabad and gardens of Paghman from his homeland.

Amir's Growth and Future

• For Amir, America symbolizes a space to bury memories; for Baba, it represents mourning lost ones.
• Baba's first job in America is as a gas station manager in Fremont.
• Refuses food stamps, asserting his work ethic to earn money.
• Fears being seen buying food with charity money, reflecting his pride.

Milestones in Amir's Life

• Amir graduates high school at twenty years old during the summer of 1983.
• Begins to notice his father's aging, with grey and thinning hair.
• Baba is proud of Amir's upcoming college education, expressing excitement for his future.
• Takes Amir to a bar after dinner, where Baba engages socially.

Gift and Reflection

• Baba gifts Amir a navy blue Ford Grand Torino.
• Stuns Amir with his reminiscence about Hassan, creating a tense moment.
• Amir plans to study English and creative writing in college.
• Baba suggests Amir will write stories, affirming his son's aspirations.

Amir's Connections and Experiences

• Enjoys driving around town in his new car for hours.
• Appreciates tranquil drives through Santa Cruz to watch the sunrise.
• Ocean memories evoke thoughts of telling Hassan they would see it together.
• Views America as a metaphorical river, indifferent to the past.

Baba and Amir's Activities

• In summer 1984, they buy a rundown VW bus for weekend outings.
• Spend Saturdays browsing garage sales for knickknacks, while Sundays are for selling them.
• Witness the growing presence of Afghan families at the flea market.

Social Dynamics at the Flea Market

• Gossip becomes a dominant theme, outpacing discussions of tea.
• Amir meets Mr. Iqbal Theri, a significant character at the flea market.

General Taheri and Social Commentary

• The General, Mr. Taheri, is described as well-groomed with a three-piece suit and a pocket watch.
• Believes fiction provides necessary distraction during hard times, a perspective Amir finds somewhat clichéd.
• The General’s words underscore societal needs for storytelling amidst struggles.

Taheri's Daughter

• The girl Amir notices bears a sickle-shaped birthmark and distinct facial features, identified as Taheri's daughter.