America: The Land of Opportunity?

Amir and his father were two of the many Afghans that were frowned upon for their decision to escape to America. America is often thought of as “the land of opportunity.” However, America plays significantly different roles in the lives of each Amir and Baba. It was a place for Amir to forget his past and start a new life and a place for Baba to mourn his past.
Amir is of higher society in his early childhood in Kabul. He goes to school, where he deepens his passion for writing. It is not until Afghanistan is undergoing its changes that this life disappears. While he is leaving his culture behind, he is also leaving the guilt he feels for betraying Hassan. He goes to America, goes to school and graduates college, and becomes a writer (much to his father’s dismay). It is not until he receives the phone call from his past that he realizes that his memories cannot be buried and America cannot erase his history.
In contrast, Baba does not get a chance at a better life when he goes to America; he only has the opportunity to better his son’s life. In Afghanistan, he is held high in society as a diplomat. In America, he is a mere immigrant. He must adjust to a whole new lifestyle and grieve for his former Afghanistan until his death.