Why does Amir tell Baba he thinks he has cancer?

• A. He actually thought he had it.
• B. He wants Baba's attention.
• C. He was testing Baba's concern, not actually thinking he had cancer.
• D. He heard about cancer from a friend.

Answer: (C)

Amir is trying to measure his father’s care and approval. He isn’t actually sick; he fabricates cancer to provoke Baba’s concern and see how deeply Baba will worry for him. This shows Amir’s insecurity and longing to feel valued by a father who often seems distant or preoccupied. The scene isn’t about a real illness or simply seeking attention in general; it’s about using a pretend illness as a test of Baba’s love and protective response. The other options don’t capture that deliberate, emotionally motivated test of his father’s concern.