Final answer:
Khaled Hosseini uses the flashback literary tool prominently in Chapter 1 of The Kite Runner to frame the story and establish a reflective narrative. Figurative language, including metaphors and similes, is used throughout to create vivid imagery and emotional depth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Khaled Hosseini employs various literary tools in Chapter 1 of The Kite Runner, but one of the most prominent is the flashback. The narrator begins the story in medias res, which means 'in the middle of things,' and quickly takes the reader back in time with a reflective tone. This use of flashback not only sets the tone for a narrative of memory and reflection but also immerses the reader in the protagonist's mind and motive for recounting his past. While there may be instances of metaphor or simile within the descriptive passages to enhance the narrative, the flashback in Chapter 1 is critical in framing the story's structure.
Hosseini's use of figurative language, such as metaphors and similes, further enriches the story, helping to create vivid imagery and emotional connections for the reader. For example, describing a smile as being like a shedding of light not only paints a visual picture but also conveys the warmth and positivity of the moment. Through his literary devices, Hosseini captures the essence of the characters' experiences and sets the scene for a narrative that explores deep themes of guilt, redemption, and the complexities of human relationships.