Vladimir Nabokov

Definition

Vladimir Nabokov was a Russian-American novelist, poet, and literary critic, known for his intricate prose style and complex narrative structures. He is often associated with postmodernism due to his innovative storytelling techniques and playful approach to language, which challenge traditional narrative forms. His most famous work, 'Lolita', exemplifies his exploration of controversial themes and the subjective nature of truth, making him a significant figure in both interwar period literature and postmodern literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nabokov was born in 1899 in St. Petersburg, Russia, and later emigrated to the United States after the Russian Revolution in 1917.
2. His literary career began in Russian, but he later wrote many of his most famous works in English, showcasing his mastery of both languages.
3. In addition to 'Lolita', Nabokov wrote several other significant novels, including 'Pale Fire' and 'Ada or Ardor', both notable for their intricate structure and rich language.
4. Nabokov was not only a writer but also a lepidopterist, and his passion for butterflies is reflected in various aspects of his work and personal life.
5. His teaching position at various universities allowed him to influence a new generation of writers and critics, leaving a lasting impact on contemporary literature.

Review Questions

• How does Nabokov's narrative style reflect postmodernist elements in his works?
  • Nabokov's narrative style is characterized by its complexity and playfulness, which are key elements of postmodernism. He often employs unreliable narrators, metafictional techniques, and intricate wordplay that invite readers to engage actively with the text. This self-referential approach challenges readers to question the nature of reality and fiction, exemplified in works like 'Pale Fire', where the form itself becomes part of the narrative experience.
• Discuss how Nabokov's experiences as a Russian émigré influenced his literary themes and character development.
  • Nabokov's experiences as a Russian émigré profoundly shaped his literary themes, particularly the notions of exile, identity, and nostalgia. His characters often grapple with feelings of displacement and longing for their homeland. This background allows him to create rich psychological portraits that explore the complexities of memory and loss, which resonate throughout his works. The interplay between cultural identity and personal experience adds depth to his storytelling.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Lolita' on both literature and societal views on controversial subjects since its publication.
  • 'Lolita' has had a significant impact on literature and societal discussions surrounding taboo topics since its publication in 1955. It challenges conventional morality by presenting a deeply disturbing yet artistically complex narrative about obsession and manipulation. The novel has sparked widespread debate about censorship, artistic freedom, and the responsibility of authors in addressing sensitive subjects. Its influence can be seen in how contemporary literature tackles difficult themes while encouraging critical discourse about ethics and human behavior.

Related terms

Lolita: A controversial novel by Nabokov that tells the story of an older man's obsession with a twelve-year-old girl, raising questions about morality, obsession, and the nature of love.

Metafiction: A type of fiction that self-consciously addresses the devices of fiction, often blurring the line between reality and fiction, which is a hallmark of Nabokov's work.

Russian émigré literature: Literature produced by Russian authors who left their homeland, particularly after the Russian Revolution, including Nabokov's works that reflect themes of exile and identity.