Synthesis

There are several literary devices, such as imagery, connotation, figurative language, and symbolism which are the most prominent of the many, found in this passage. The image of white fingernail beds as depicted of Mariam, demonstrates this idea of hard work and youth. This is seen throughout the story as a way of expressing the role of women in the afghan culture. The line utilizing figurative language “teaching you is like shining a spittoon” reflects this life style where women are expected to be uneducated and often looked down upon. The positive connotation from the phrase "enchanting sounds,"used to descirbe the words of the Koran shows the respect for the Koran's teachings. The description of the Kolba, where they live is seen as a very simple life style. This is a strong reflection of the condition of poverty in which many are forced to live in their country. These are just some of the literary devices being used in the passage. A key aspect of this passage that could be described as a literary device, although not one in specific, is his use of foreign words. This is an example of emphasis; Khaled Hosseini uses words of his own life to display significance and his personal influence on the novel. This not only shows his personal connection with his writing, but enables the reader to understand the situation of people living in Afghanistan on a much clearer  level. His use of these terms, especially those affiliated with the Koran, express the heavy traditional style culture of Afghanistan. These among other symbols and images he uses in his novel repeat several times, which emphasizes all of the significant attributes of Afghan-Islamic culture Hosseini portrays.