The Persian Carpet

Assignment # 23: The Persian Carpet Megan Kinders

1. From which point of view is the story told? Provide proof.

The Persian Carpet is told by a young girl in first person point of view. We see evidence of this in the use of the words, I and we. The word I is used in this excerpt; “Though in control of my self and my shyness, I knew that I would be incapable- however much I tried- of showing my emotions …” This quote evidences the use of we; “As we went down the steps, we turned back towards the door, then towards the window.”

2. What does the Persian carpet in the story symbolize? Explain.

Initially, the Persian carpet symbolized the comfort and security of home. The girl associated the carpet with her home when their family was

You see her emotions towards her mom change from feelings of love and admiration to feelings of anger, betrayal and hurt. This change is evidenced by the girl’s thoughts as she wishes she could remove her mothers’ arms from around her and sink her teeth into her white forearm. Shrinking back into herself she retreats and we wonder if she will be forever scarred by this experience. Realistic and stereotypical behavior is seen in her reactions to the situations she finds herself in. Reacting in a way we’d expect someone her age to react when some one hurts you is stereotypical. Displaying anger and hurt when betrayed is a realistic response.

Maryam is a static and realistic character. Journeying along side the girls she makes no major decisions, consistently acting as the stable mother figure. Eager to see the narrators’ mother at the beginning of the story, she responds with tears of happiness. No major decisions are made by her nor are there any influencing moments that change her point of view. Maryam is a realistic character. Responding with tenderness towards the girls and tears when their mother leaves, she responds as you would expect a mother figure to

So many times I have replayed the events of that day in my mind. I am sorry; sorry for what my mother said and for what my father and my neighbors did not. You were an honest man trying to make an honest living; I am sure of it. When my mother blamed you for stealing the carpet and everyone remained silent I could not keep quiet. The confusion I felt was overwhelming. Why would my mother choose you to blame? You who had pierced my heart with your blind eyes, you who had eaten and drunk from our bounty as your hands worked deftly to repair our chairs. Why would my mother have done this? Why would she blame you? Desperately, I wish that I had the answers then. Then I did not, but now I do. Determined not to be caught in a lie, my mother turned to you as her scapegoat. As I replay that day once more in my mind, I am sure that you knew that. It was in the tears that rolled down your cheeks and in your voice as you whispered “never mind, child”. Watching you work and craft with your hands gave me great joy. Occasionally, I have wondered where you are, where life has taken you. And so, I just wanted to write to you to let you know that I am sorry that you became the dumping ground for my mother’s lies and deception. My hope for you is that you have been able to move on