A Thousand Splendid Suns: Character Analysis

Mariam

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Forced Marriage to Rasheed
• After her mother's suicide, Mariam is married off to Rasheed by her father. This marriage is characterized by Rasheed's increasing abuse and Mariam's isolation and suffering.
• Mariam's Miscarriages
• Mariam suffers multiple miscarriages, which further strain her relationship with Rasheed and lead to his increasing hostility and violence.
• Friendship with Laila
• Initially antagonistic, Mariam and Laila's relationship transforms into a deep bond. They find solace and strength in each other, which empowers Mariam to stand up against Rasheed.
• Mariam's Execution
• After killing Rasheed, Mariam is arrested and executed by the Taliban. She faces her death with dignity, knowing that her sacrifice has given Laila and her children a chance at a better life.
• Mariam Kills Rasheed
• In a climactic moment, Mariam kills Rasheed to protect Laila. This act signifies Mariam's ultimate transformation and her willingness to sacrifice herself for those she loves.

Key Themes

• Suffering and Endurance: Mariam's life is a testament to the theme of suffering and endurance. From her illegitimate birth to her abusive marriage, Mariam endures immense hardship but remains resilient.
• Female Bonding and Solidarity: The friendship between Mariam and Laila underscores the importance of female bonding and solidarity in overcoming oppression and hardship.
• Sacrifice: Mariam's ultimate act of killing Rasheed and accepting her death highlights the theme of sacrifice. Her actions are driven by love and the desire to protect Laila and her children.

Key Quotes

"She understood then what Nana meant, that a harami was an unwanted thing: that she, Mariam, was an illegitimate person who would never have legitimate claim to the things other people had, things such as love, family, home, acceptance."

• This quote illustrates Mariam's early understanding of her societal status and the deep-seated shame she feels as a result of being an illegitimate child.

"For the first time, Mariam could hear [Jalil] with Nana's ears. She could hear so clearly now the insincerity that had always lurked beneath, the hollow, false assurances."

• This moment marks Mariam's realization of her father's true nature and the betrayal she feels, which influences her subsequent decisions and relationships.

"But I'm a different breed of man, Mariam. Where I come from, one wrong look, one improper word, and blood is spilled. Where I come from, a woman's face is her husband's business only. I want you to remember that. Do you understand?"

• This quote highlights Rasheed's oppressive and violent attitude towards women, setting the stage for the abusive relationship that Mariam endures.

"It wasn't easy tolerating him talking this way to her, to bear his scorn, his ridicule, his insults, his walking past her like she was nothing but a house cat. But after four years of marriage, Mariam saw clearly how much a woman could tolerate when she was afraid."

• This quote reflects Mariam's endurance and the fear that keeps her in a submissive position for much of her marriage to Rasheed.

"Why have you pinned your heart to an old, ugly hag like me?" Mariam would murmur into Aziza's hair. "Huh? I am nobody, don't you see? A dehati. What have I got to give you?"

• Mariam's self-deprecating words to Aziza reveal her deep-seated feelings of worthlessness, yet her bond with Aziza also brings her a sense of love and connection she has long been denied.

Laila

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Loss of Family
  • The death of Laila's parents in a bombing forces her into a dire situation, leading to her marriage to Rasheed for survival.
• Marriage to Rasheed
  • Laila marries Rasheed after being led to believe that Tariq is dead. This marriage is fraught with abuse and hardship.
• Birth of Aziza and Zalmai
  • Laila's children, Aziza and Zalmai, are central to her motivations and actions. Her love for them drives her to endure Rasheed's abuse and fight for a better future.
• Bonding with Mariam
  • Laila's initial hostility towards Mariam transforms into a deep bond. Together, they resist Rasheed's tyranny and support each other through immense hardships.
• Escape and Return to Kabul
  • After Rasheed's death, Laila escapes to Pakistan with Tariq and her children. Eventually, she decides to return to Kabul to contribute to the rebuilding of her country.

Key Themes

• Resilience and Hope: Laila's character embodies resilience and hope, as she endures tremendous loss and hardship but remains determined to fight for a better future.
• Sacrifice and Solidarity: Like Mariam, Laila's life is marked by sacrifice. Her bond with Mariam highlights the theme of female solidarity in the face of oppression.
• Motherhood: The theme of motherhood is central to Laila's character. Her love for her children drives many of her decisions and actions throughout the novel.

Key Quotes

"But, miraculously, something of her former life remained, her last link to the person that she had been before she had become so utterly alone. A part of Tariq still alive inside her, sprouting tiny arms, growing translucent hands. How could she jeopardize the only thing she had left of him, of her old life?"

• This quote highlights Laila's connection to Tariq and her determination to protect their child, which gives her strength to endure her marriage to Rasheed.

"Laila examined Mariam's drooping cheeks, the eyelids that sagged in tired folds, the deep lines that framed her mouth—she saw these things as though she too were looking at someone for the first time. And, for the first time, it was not an adversary's face Laila saw but a face of grievances unspoken, burdens gone unprotested, a destiny submitted to and endured."

• This moment signifies the shift in Laila's perception of Mariam, from an adversary to a kindred spirit who has endured similar suffering.

"Laila dropped the spoke because she could not accept what the Mujahideen readily had: that sometimes in war innocent life had to be taken. Her war was against Rasheed. The baby was blameless. And there had been enough killing already. Laila had seen enough killing of innocents caught in the crossfire of enemies."

• This quote reflects Laila's moral struggle and her refusal to perpetuate the cycle of violence, even against her abusive husband.

"Why have you pinned your heart to an old, ugly hag like me?" Mariam would murmur into Aziza's hair. "Huh? I am nobody, don't you see? A dehati. What have I got to give you?"

• This quote reveals Mariam's insecurities and her amazement at the unconditional love she receives from Aziza, which mirrors the bond between Mariam and Laila.

"Laila has learned that a mother's unconditional love for her children can transcend the circumstances around their birth. Nevertheless, it is disturbing how Rasheed's authentic love for Zalmai can be twisted and perverted. For Rasheed, in fact, love is selfish rather than generous—though Laila, too, has in the past acted in the interests of herself and her unborn child and against those of Mariam."

• This quote underscores the complexities of love and motherhood in the novel, highlighting both Laila's selfless love and Rasheed's selfish version of love.

Rasheed

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Marriage to Mariam
  • Rasheed marries Mariam after her mother's death. Initially kind, he soon reveals his abusive nature, particularly after Mariam suffers multiple miscarriages.
• Marriage to Laila
  • Rasheed marries Laila after she is orphaned, using deceit to manipulate her into the marriage. His treatment of Laila mirrors his abuse of Mariam.
• Abuse and Control
  • Throughout the novel, Rasheed's abusive behaviour escalates, including physical violence and psychological manipulation, which intensify the suffering of Mariam and Laila.
• Rasheed's Death
  • In a climactic confrontation, Rasheed attempts to kill Laila, but Mariam intervenes and kills him with a shovel. His death marks the end of his tyrannical rule over the household.
• Impact on Mariam and Laila
  • Rasheed's brutality and control shape much of Mariam and Laila's experiences, ultimately leading to their solidarity and resistance against him.

Key Themes

• Hypocrisy and Moral Corruption: Rasheed's character is marked by hypocrisy, as he outwardly conforms to societal norms while engaging in immoral and abusive behaviour behind closed doors.
• Patriarchy and Oppression: Rasheed represents the oppressive patriarchal structures that dictate the lives of Mariam and Laila. His character highlights the systemic abuse of women in Afghan society.
• Violence and Control: Rasheed's use of violence to exert control over his wives underscores the theme of power and dominance in abusive relationships.

Key Quotes

"But I'm a different breed of man, Mariam. Where I come from, one wrong look, one improper word, and blood is spilled. Where I come from, a woman's face is her husband's business only. I want you to remember that. Do you understand?"

• This quote exemplifies Rasheed's oppressive and violent mindset, setting the tone for his abusive relationship with Mariam.

"It wasn't easy tolerating him talking this way to her, to bear his scorn, his ridicule, his insults, his walking past her like she was nothing but a house cat. But after four years of marriage, Mariam saw clearly how much a woman could tolerate when she was afraid."

• This quote highlights the fear and endurance that define Mariam's experience with Rasheed's abuse.

Tariq

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Childhood Friendship with Laila
  • Tariq and Laila grow up together, sharing a deep bond of friendship and love.
  • Their childhood is marked by innocence and mutual support, laying the foundation for their later relationship.
• Departure to Pakistan
  • Tariq and his family flee to Pakistan to escape the escalating violence in Kabul.
  • This departure is a significant turning point, as it separates him from Laila and leads to years of uncertainty.
• Return to Laila's Life
  • After years of imprisonment and hardship, Tariq returns to Laila, rekindling their love and providing a new beginning for her and her children.
• Marriage to Laila
  • Tariq and Laila marry after Rasheed's death, offering Laila a chance at a loving and supportive relationship.
  • Their marriage symbolizes hope and renewal amid destruction.
• Life in Murree
  • Tariq, Laila, and their children move to Murree, Pakistan, where they begin to rebuild their lives.
  • This new chapter highlights Tariq's enduring commitment to his family and their collective healing.

Key Themes

• Resilience and Endurance: Tariq's character embodies the theme of resilience. Despite losing a leg and enduring imprisonment, he remains determined to reunite with Laila and build a better future.
• Love and Loyalty: Tariq's unwavering love for Laila is a central theme. His loyalty contrasts with the betrayal and violence Laila experiences with Rasheed, highlighting the transformative power of genuine love.
• Hope and Renewal: Tariq's return and subsequent marriage to Laila symbolize hope and renewal. His presence offers a new beginning and a chance for healing after years of suffering.

Key Quotes

"He wrote Laila tons of letters, he says, even though he doubted she'd receive them."

• This quote illustrates Tariq's enduring love and hope. Despite the slim chance of his letters reaching Laila, he continues to write, keeping their connection alive during his imprisonment.

"Tariq says that he befriended a Pakistani named Salim, who had plenty of contacts. Salim found out that Tariq's mother died of exposure."

• This quote highlights Tariq's ability to form meaningful connections even in adverse conditions, underscoring his resilience and adaptability.

"Tariq vowed to get his family out of the camp. In fall 1993 he met a shopkeeper, who offered to pay him to take a leather coat to Lahore. He said that if Tariq got caught, he'd be on his own."

• Tariq's willingness to take risks for his family demonstrates his courage and determination to improve their situation despite the dangers involved.

"Though many years have passed, Laila still thinks of Tariq as the teenager whom she kissed in secret, and now has to reconcile that image with the adult sitting before her."

• This quote reflects the enduring bond between Tariq and Laila, highlighting the challenges of reconciling memories with present realities.

"As Tariq and Laila catch up with each other, they each must adjust the way they've imagined the other over the years. They've changed just as Kabul has, becoming unrecognizably different from the Kabul of their youth."

• This quote underscores the theme of change and adaptation, as Tariq and Laila navigate their altered lives and the transformation of their homeland.

Nana

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Rejection by Jalil and Society
  • Nana's life is defined by her rejection after becoming pregnant with Mariam. Jalil, Mariam's father, and society at large ostracize her, forcing her to live in isolation.
• Mariam's Birth
  • Nana gives birth to Mariam in the kolba, an event that compounds her feelings of shame and resentment but also establishes her deep, if complex, bond with her daughter.
• Mariam's Desire for Education
  • When Mariam expresses a desire to go to school, Nana dismisses the idea, emphasizing the importance of enduring hardship over seeking education or change.
• Conflict with Mariam Over Jalil
  • Nana and Mariam often clash over Mariam's idolization of Jalil. Nana's attempts to protect Mariam from heartbreak culminate in her forbidding Mariam from visiting Jalil.
• Nana's Suicide
  • Nana's suicide following Mariam's visit to Jalil marks a tragic turning point. Her death leaves a profound impact on Mariam, shaping her understanding of endurance and loss.

Key Themes

• Endurance: Nana's life is a testament to the theme of endurance. She teaches Mariam that suffering is inevitable and that women like them must learn to endure it.
• Marginalization: Nana's status as an outcast highlights the theme of marginalization. Her character reflects the harsh realities faced by women who do not conform to societal norms.
• Betrayal and Mistrust: Nana's experiences with Jalil and society instil in her a deep sense of betrayal and mistrust, which she passes on to Mariam.

Key Quotes

"It's our lot in life, Mariam. Women like us. We endure. It's all we have. Do you understand?"

• This quote encapsulates Nana's worldview and the lessons she imparts to Mariam about endurance and the harsh realities faced by marginalized women.

"When she gave birth to Mariam, in spring 1959, Jalil hadn't bothered to call a doctor."

• This quote highlights the neglect and abandonment Nana felt from Jalil, which fuels her resentment and shapes her interactions with Mariam.

"Nana teaches Mariam to cook and sew. She only admits a few visitors: the village leader Habib Khan, her old friend Bibi jo, and especially Mullah Faizullah."

• Nana's restrictive social interactions reflect her isolation and the narrow world she creates for herself and Mariam.

"Nana scoffs that it's just nomad jewelry made from coins people throw at them."

• This quote illustrates Nana's cynicism and her attempts to protect Mariam from disappointment by belittling Jalil's gestures.

"Nana says that she refused to live in Herat, where the neighbors would whisper about her."

• Nana's pride and desire to avoid societal judgment lead her to live in isolation, demonstrating her complex character and the impact of societal norms on her life.

Jalil

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Mariam's Birth and Nana's Isolation
  • Jalil sends Nana, Mariam's mother, to live in a kolba (hut) on the outskirts of Herat after she becomes pregnant. This isolation sets the stage for Mariam's marginalization.
• Visits to the Kolba
  • Jalil visits Mariam weekly, bringing her gifts and stories. These visits foster Mariam's adoration for him despite his refusal to integrate her into his public life.
• Mariam's Fifteenth Birthday
  • Mariam requests to visit Jalil's cinema for her birthday. When Jalil refuses and Mariam shows up uninvited, she is humiliated and realizes her true place in his life.
• Arranging Mariam's Marriage
  • Following Nana's suicide, Jalil arranges for Mariam to marry Rasheed, a much older man from Kabul. This decision reflects his ultimate betrayal and prioritization of his reputation.
• Jalil's Regret
  • Towards the end of his life, Jalil attempts to reconcile with Mariam by leaving her a letter and inheritance, expressing his deep regret and guilt over his treatment of her.

Key Themes

• Betrayal and Neglect: Jalil's character embodies the themes of betrayal and neglect. His failure to fully accept Mariam despite his periodic kindness underscores the emotional impact of parental neglect.
• Redemption and Regret: Jalil's later attempts to seek forgiveness from Mariam reflect the theme of redemption and the personal guilt he feels over his past actions.
• Shame and Social Status: Jalil's actions reflect his concerns with social status and reputation, highlighting the theme of shame associated with illegitimacy.

Key Quotes

"Jalil has three wives and nine legitimate children. He owns a cinema and is very wealthy."

• This quote highlights Jalil's social and economic status, contrasting sharply with the poverty and isolation experienced by Mariam and Nana.

"Nana says that when she gave birth to Mariam, in spring 1959, Jalil hadn't bothered to call a doctor."

• This quote underscores Jalil's neglect and the beginning of Nana's resentment towards him, shaping Mariam's early understanding of her father.

"Every Thursday, Jalil came to visit Mariam in the kolba. He brought her presents and told her stories about Herat and the world beyond."

• Jalil's visits to the kolba create a facade of care and affection, fostering Mariam's love for him despite his overall neglect.

"It was a familiar feeling. This crushing disappointment. Every time Mariam heard the wheels, her heart sank a little. But she never dared show it."

• This quote captures Mariam's internal struggle and disappointment with Jalil, highlighting the emotional toll of his neglect.

"But Jalil had not come. Mariam had sat in the waiting room for hours, knowing in her heart that Jalil wouldn't come but holding on to hope."

• Mariam's realization of Jalil's true nature during her birthday visit underscores the theme of betrayal and marks a turning point in her relationship with him.

Mullah Faizullah

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Teaching Mariam
  • Mullah Faizullah teaches Mariam to recite the Koran and memorize prayers, providing her with a foundation of faith and comfort.
• Support After Nana's Suicide
  • After Nana's suicide, Mullah Faizullah tries to comfort Mariam, offering her solace and reminding her of the importance of faith.
• Mariam's Desire for Education
  • Mullah Faizullah supports Mariam's desire to go to school, although Nana dismisses the idea. His encouragement highlights his belief in the importance of education.
• Spiritual Guidance
  • Throughout the novel, Mariam recalls Mullah Faizullah's teachings during moments of suffering, using his wisdom as a source of strength.
• Mullah Faizullah's Absence
  • Although Mariam never sees Mullah Faizullah again after leaving for Kabul, his influence remains a guiding force in her life.

Key Themes

• Faith and Spiritual Guidance: Mullah Faizullah represents the theme of faith and spiritual guidance, providing Mariam with a sense of comfort and stability.
• Education: Mullah Faizullah's support for Mariam's desire to learn underscores the theme of education and its potential to empower individuals.
• Compassion and Wisdom: His compassionate nature and wisdom highlight the importance of kindness and understanding in overcoming hardship.

Key Quotes

"Mullah Faizullah taught Mariam to recite the Koran and memorize the daily prayers."

• This quote establishes Mullah Faizullah's role as a spiritual teacher and his impact on Mariam's religious education.

"Mullah Faizullah couldn't comfort Mariam after Nana's suicide, but his teachings served as a guide for her."

• Despite his inability to fully console her, Mullah Faizullah's teachings provide Mariam with enduring spiritual guidance.

"Mariam trusted and looked up to Mullah Faizullah."

• This quote highlights the deep respect and trust Mariam has for Mullah Faizullah, emphasizing his influence on her life.

"Mullah Faizullah's advice and stories of his youthful travels enchanted Mariam."

• His stories and advice offer Mariam a glimpse into a broader world, fostering her curiosity and providing her with a sense of hope.

"Even after leaving Herat, Mariam often called upon what Mullah Faizullah had taught her as she endured further suffering."

• This quote underscores the lasting impact of Mullah Faizullah's teachings on Mariam's ability to cope with adversity.

Fariba (Mammy)

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Grief Over Sons' Departure
  • Fariba's deep depression begins when her sons leave to fight in the Mujahideen. Her inability to cope with their absence marks the start of her decline.
• Sons' Deaths
  • The deaths of Ahmad and Noor exacerbate Fariba's grief, leading her to withdraw further from her family and responsibilities.
• Neglect of Laila
  • Fariba's overwhelming grief results in her neglecting Laila, who must navigate her childhood with little support or guidance from her mother.
• Blaming Babi
  • Fariba frequently blames her husband, Hakim (Babi), for their sons' deaths and his inability to prevent them from leaving. This blame reflects her desperation and emotional turmoil.
• Rekindled Hope
  • Despite her grief, Fariba briefly rekindles hope for Afghanistan's future, inspired by Laila's strength and determination. However, this hope is short-lived as the reality of war continues to overshadow her life.

Key Themes

• Impact of War: Fariba's character illustrates the devastating impact of war on families and individuals, particularly through the loss of loved ones.
• Neglect and Responsibility: Fariba's neglect of Laila underscores the theme of parental responsibility and the consequences of emotional absence on children.
• Grief and Desperation: Her profound grief and resulting desperation highlight the emotional toll of losing children and the challenges of coping with such a loss.

Key Quotes

"Fariba was originally a curious, joyful woman but became increasingly depressed at the departure of her two sons."

• This quote highlights the transformation in Fariba's character due to the loss of her sons, emphasizing the profound impact of grief.

"Their death drives her into further desperation, and she remains in her room for most of the time, unable to take care of Laila."

• Fariba's inability to care for Laila underscores the depth of her depression and the consequences of her emotional withdrawal.

"Mammy blames Babi for his inability to stop their sons from leaving, and for his bookishness and lack of practical savvy."

• This quote reflects Fariba's misplaced blame on Babi, illustrating her desperation and emotional turmoil.

Hakim (Babi)

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Dismissal from Teaching
  • Babi loses his job as a high school teacher due to the communist takeover, but he continues to support their progressive policies on education and women's rights.
• Support for Laila's Education
  • Despite the dangers posed by the ongoing conflict, Babi continues to educate Laila at home, emphasizing the critical role of education in her future.
• Dreams of Leaving Afghanistan
  • Babi dreams of leaving Afghanistan for a better future in America, where Laila can receive a higher education and they can live in peace.
• Memories of Fariba's Past
  • Babi often reminisces about Fariba's joyful and adventurous past, showing his enduring love and commitment to her despite her current state of depression.
• Political Shifts
  • Babi informs the family about political changes, such as the signing of a treaty in Geneva, highlighting his engagement with the country's political landscape and its impact on their lives.

Key Themes

• Education and Gender Equality: Babi embodies the theme of education and gender equality. He believes strongly in Laila's potential and the importance of educating women for the future of Afghanistan.
• Love and Family: His love for Laila and Fariba underscores the theme of familial love and loyalty, even in the face of personal and national turmoil.
• Hope and Resilience: Babi's dreams of a better future for his family in America represent hope and resilience amidst the devastation of war.

Key Quotes

"I know you're still young, but I want you to understand and learn this now," he said. "Marriage can wait, education cannot. You're a very, very bright girl. Truly, you are. You can be anything you want, Laila. I know this about you. And I also know that when this war is over, Afghanistan is going to need you as much as its men, maybe even more. Because a society has no chance of success if its women are uneducated, Laila. No chance."

• This quote underscores Babi's unwavering belief in the importance of education for women and his faith in Laila's potential.

"Babi says that he often brought Mammy up here, back when she was adventurous and alive. He smiles at the memories, and Laila knows she'll always remember Babi in this way, happy and reminiscing."

• This quote highlights Babi's enduring love for Fariba and his ability to find moments of happiness amidst their shared grief.

"He says he thanks God that he has Laila—he doesn't know what he'd do without her. Sometimes, he continues, he has thoughts of leaving Afghanistan, maybe to Pakistan first and eventually to America."

• Babi's expression of gratitude and his dreams of a better future underscore his hope and resilience.

"Laila remembers Mammy saying that she had married a man with no convictions, but Laila knows that Mammy is the one constant conviction of his life."

• This quote illustrates the depth of Babi's love and loyalty to Fariba, despite her dismissive remarks.

"Though Babi had believed he could stay loyal to Afghanistan even while abroad, for Laila, her understanding of Afghanistan is bound up with the memories of the people she loves in the country."

• This quote reflects the complex interplay between Babi's dreams for a better future and Laila's emotional ties to her homeland.

Zalmai

Overview

Key Plot Moments

• Birth and Early Years
  • Zalmai is born amidst turmoil, and Laila's decision to keep him marks a significant moment in her life. He grows up in an environment shaped by Rasheed's abusive behaviour.
• Influence of Rasheed
  • When Rasheed is around, Zalmai becomes cranky and difficult, reflecting the tension in their household. Rasheed's favouritism impacts Zalmai's behaviour and relationship with his mother.
• Rasheed's Death
  • After Rasheed's death, Zalmai struggles with the loss of his father, who, despite his flaws, played a significant role in his life. This loss affects Zalmai deeply, leading to emotional turmoil.
• Adjusting to a New Life
  • Following Rasheed's death, Zalmai has to adjust to a new life without his father. This adjustment period is challenging for him and highlights the emotional impact of the upheaval.
• Relationship with Tariq
  • Zalmai eventually meets Tariq, Laila's first love, and learns to accept him as a part of their family, illustrating his resilience and capacity for adaptation.

Key Themes

• Impact of Parental Influence: Zalmai's character underscores the theme of parental influence, particularly how Rasheed's presence and subsequent absence shape his behaviour and emotions.
• Love and Resilience: Despite the difficulties, Zalmai's ability to adapt and eventually accept Tariq into their lives reflects the themes of love and resilience.
• Loss and Adjustment: His struggle with the loss of his father and the subsequent adjustments highlight the theme of loss and the challenges of coping with significant changes in family dynamics.

Key Quotes

"Zalmai – Laila's son with Rasheed, whom she nearly aborts, but whom she ends up loving just as much as she loves Aziza."

• This quote highlights Laila's internal conflict and ultimate decision to keep Zalmai, illustrating her deep love for her children.

"When Zalmai is with his father, however, he becomes cranky and difficult to handle."

• This quote reflects the negative influence of Rasheed on Zalmai's behaviour and the tension within the household.

"He misses his father desperately after his death, which leads Laila to understand one of the many costs of her happiness."

• This quote underscores the emotional impact of Rasheed's death on Zalmai and highlights the complex nature of family dynamics.

"One day, Laila, Mariam, and Zalmai are returning from the orphanage when Zalmai calls out that there's a strange man outside the house. It's Tariq."

• This moment marks a significant turning point in Zalmai's life as he encounters Tariq, leading to further changes in their family structure.

"Zalmai tells Rasheed about the strange man Laila was talking to. Rasheed sends him upstairs and begins to beat Laila and Mariam."

• This quote illustrates the intense and violent environment Zalmai is exposed to, shaping his perceptions and experiences.