Theme Statements
Part 1
An individual’s fate is not always dictated by that individual, but by the conditions and adversities they face. The life of young Mariam in part one illustrates the occurrences of her early life’s events as far from her control. Hosseini develops the idea that happiness is decided by the way in which an individual responds to adverse situations, which is exemplified by the negative ambience of Mariam’s household due to her mother’s sorrow.
Part 2
Part two is evidence that self-respect and confidence goes a long way when defending one’s integrity. The substance of one’s character, however, is not always enough to impress others or dictate one’s future favorably. Laila’s childhood demonstrates this idea in which her strong personality does not protect her from inevitable misfortune.
Part 3
One of the major themes in part three is the disparity of force and sympathy. When oppressed individuals are faced with aggression and brutality, sympathy is often triggered among observers as well as the victims themselves. It is suggested that courage is required in desperate times, in which the idea of power in numbers is a very prominent component in part three. Therefore, with support from those who share similar adversities, an instinctive bond may form between sufferers.
Part 4
Part four essentially summarizes the after effects of human suffering and the idea of moving on from the past. There comes a time in which progressing from past adversities is difficult, but necessary. It is key to begin rebuilding a lifestyle if one desires a promising future.