Student Question
Why is "The Kite Runner" considered a frame story?
Quick answer:
"The Kite Runner" is considered a frame story because it features a narrative within a narrative. The novel begins with Amir reflecting on his past, specifically events from his childhood in 1975 that shaped his life. The story then unfolds through his recollections, detailing his experiences and the wrongs he seeks to amend. It concludes in the present, with Amir's hope to gain Sohrab's trust and indirectly atone for his past mistakes with Hassan.
The Kite Runner qualifies as a frame story because it consists of a story within a story. The novel begins with Amir looking back on events that took place when he was twelve that changed him forever. He notes, "I became what I am today at the age of twelve, on a frigid overcast day in the winter of 1975." He then begins to tell the events of his childhood that made him what he is today. He finished the novel with the present day and the hope he has that one day he'll be able to earn Sohrab's true trust and be able to pay, albeit indirectly, Hassan back for the wrongs he'd commited back when they were children.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.