The Kite Runner ~ simile

"I can still see Hassan up on that tree, sunlight flickering through the leaves on his almost perfectly round face, a face like a Chinese doll chiseled from hardwood: his flat, broad nose and slanting, narrow eyes like bamboo leaves, eyes that looked, depending on the light, gold, green, even sapphire...and the cleft lip, just left of midline, where the Chinese doll maker's instrument may have slipped, or perhaps he had simply grown tired and careless" (page 3).

Shortly after the book begins, the character Hassan is introduced. Amir, the narrator, speaks admiringly about him and compares his features to a Chinese doll. This description creates the sense that Hassan was carefully created perfectly in every aspect; his only flaw seems to be a cleft lip. Throughout further chapters in the book, Amir continues to speak favorably of Hassan. He seems perfect in every way, even to the point where Amir is jealous of him. Although Amir has always been given whatever he desired, he still envies Hassan. This is even a little ironic because Hassan is the son of Baba's servant, and he is generally looked down upon by society. The purpose and significance of this repeated simile is to show Amir's admiration and jealousy for Hassan. Hassan is strong, intelligent (despite his lack of education), and above all - loyal. Comparing him to a chiseled Chinese doll emphasizes and creates a mental image of his perfect character. He is willing to do anything, even risk his life or put himself in danger's way, for Amir...and he does...