Differences of Kabul (quote analysis)

Kabul as a whole, represents  Amir's childhood and the memory his family including Hassan. When Amir is last in Kabul, things are still normal for the most part. He runs away is because things started to get hostile for Amir and his father. However, Amir never expects to see so many changes in his hometown. In this quote, the sight of Kabul brings a reaction of shock and dismay to Amir's face. The reason wh the author includes that Fahir is usally familiar to the expression is to emphasize how much Kabul has changed since before the Taliban took over. Usually, every place of sentimental value retains the same positive emotions no matter how much something changes. For example, a grown man can return to his hometown and feel the memories catching up with him no matter how different things may be. However, by included that almost everyone has the same expression upon reaching Kabul, the author is showing that there is no longer a memory of happiness as soon as people enter the town. The joy and happiness has been driven out by the Taliban and only the shadow of the past remains. This quote is used to express that Kabul is not only different, but it is beyond recognition to everyone's eyes. This represents the general social problem that war causes in Afghanistan. With war, people are left as beggars, poor, or homeless. The use of weapons leaves cities ruined beyond recognition (like Kabul).