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Simile
Explanation and Analysis—Swiss Chocolate:
When Amir describes seeing Dr. Nawaz for the first time, he uses a simile comparing Nawab’s smooth, dark skin to Swiss chocolate:
His skin is dark like the imported Swiss chocolate Hassan and I used to buy from the bazaar in Shar-e-Nau; he has thinning hair and hazel eyes topped with curved eyelashes.
Swiss chocolate has a reputation for being very pure and of very high quality. Comparing Nawab’s skin to Swiss chocolate suggests that Amir sees it as rich and smooth with a deep, even color. By linking Nawab’s complexion to a beloved childhood treat, Amir creates an immediate sense of familiarity and comfort with the doctor. The chocolate, which Amir remembers sharing happily with Hassan, is associated with some of his most pleasant childhood memories. This shapes Amir’s first impression of Nawaz as welcoming, even though he's afraid of the news about Sohrab the doctor may be there to deliver. The comparison also shows the way Amir's memories of childhood still color his view of new experiences as an adult. Even as an adult waking up in a hospital, small sensory details like the color of someone's skin can teleport Amir back into safer, more innocent times.
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