Book Review 10 - Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Book Review 10 - Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Title: Lolita. Author: Vladimir Nabokov. Publication Details: First published in 1955 by Olympia Press, Paris. Genre: Literary Fiction, Psychological Novel, Tragicomedy.

Introduction

Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita is a novel that has left an indelible mark on literature due to its controversial subject matter and extraordinary prose. First published in 1955, the novel tells the story of Humbert Humbert, a middle-aged man obsessed with a young girl. The book's exploration of desire, obsession and manipulation has provoked strong reactions since its release, sparking debates on ethics, art and literary genius. It remains one of the most discussed works of the 20th century, praised for its artistic brilliance while condemned for its troubling themes.

Summary of the Plot

The novel is narrated by Humbert Humbert, who recounts his obsession with a 12-year-old girl named Dolores Haze, whom he calls "Lolita." After marrying her mother, Charlotte, in order to stay close to Lolita, Humbert's plans take a dark turn when Charlotte dies in an accident, leaving him in sole custody of Lolita. Humbert embarks on a road trip across America, manipulating and sexually abusing Lolita under the guise of a fatherly relationship. Eventually, Lolita escapes Humbert’s control and marries another man but Humbert tracks down a rival, Clare Quilty, who had also exploited Lolita. The novel ends with Humbert imprisoned, reflecting on his actions and preparing for trial.

Analysis of Themes

One of the most prominent themes in Lolita is obsession, which serves as the engine driving Humbert’s actions and the novel's plot. His fixation on Lolita consumes him entirely, leading to destructive choices that ruin lives. The theme of manipulation is closely tied to this obsession, as Humbert controls Lolita both physically and emotionally, using his intelligence and charm to rationalize his exploitation of her.

The novel also grapples with the nature of morality and guilt. Humbert’s justifications for his behavior challenge readers to confront uncomfortable ethical questions, while the tension between art and morality is ever-present, raising concerns about whether the novel itself romanticizes the crimes it depicts.

Style and Structure

Nabokov’s Lolita is a showcase of his linguistic genius. The novel is structured in two parts: the first introduces Humbert’s obsession with Lolita and his manipulative marriage to her mother, while the second focuses on Humbert's relationship with Lolita as they travel across the country. The structure reflects Humbert’s gradual unraveling and the increasing tension as his grip on Lolita— and his sanity— weakens.

The pacing is deliberate, allowing the narrative to oscillate between humor, tragedy and horror. This layered approach mirrors Humbert’s contradictory nature, a figure who is both monstrous and self-aware. Nabokov plays with the reader’s emotions, creating discomfort by juxtaposing Humbert’s poetic musings with the grim reality of his actions.

Narrative Style

The novel is written in first-person, with Humbert Humbert as the unreliable narrator. Humbert’s eloquence and self-awareness are crucial in shaping the reader’s perception of events. He often addresses the reader directly, making them complicit in his confession. His unreliable narration means that much of the novel is filtered through his manipulative lens, presenting Lolita not as a victim but as a temptress, further complicating the reader's experience.

This narrative technique immerses readers in Humbert's twisted psychology, making it difficult to extricate empathy from revulsion.

Language and Tone

Nabokov’s prose in Lolita is celebrated for its beauty, wit and complexity. He blends lyrical descriptions with intricate wordplay, often elevating even the most disturbing scenes with his poetic use of language. This stylistic contrast between Humbert’s refined language and the sordid content of his actions is one of the novel’s most disorienting effects. The tone shifts between dark comedy, tragedy and melancholy, frequently catching the reader off-guard.

Critical Evaluation

Since its publication, Lolita has divided critics. Some view it as a literary masterpiece that uses sublime prose to explore the depths of human obsession and guilt. Others argue that its subject matter— pedophilia and abuse— is too morally objectionable to be redeemed by its artistry. Nabokov himself insisted that the novel is about Humbert’s tragic fate rather than a celebration of his desires but readers must grapple with the tension between form and content.

The novel’s controversial status arises from this interplay: it is at once deeply disturbing and undeniably brilliant in its execution. While it forces readers to question their moral boundaries, it also showcases Nabokov’s literary innovation and boldness.

Strengths

Exquisite Prose: Nabokov’s use of language is masterful, turning Humbert’s twisted psychology into a mesmerizing, albeit disturbing, narrative.   

Complex Characterization: Humbert Humbert is one of literature’s most complex and unforgettable characters, combining charm and monstrousness in a way that forces the reader to engage with him.   

Moral Complexity: The novel’s refusal to provide easy answers about art, ethics and morality challenges readers to think critically about both the story and its implications.

Weaknesses   

Disturbing Content: The novel’s focus on pedophilia and abuse makes it an uncomfortable read, and some may find the subject matter too unsettling to engage with, despite its literary merit.   

Narrative Sympathy for Humbert: While Nabokov aims to critique Humbert, some readers may find the narrative’s sympathy for his character problematic, especially given Lolita’s limited voice in the story. 

Conclusion

Lolita is a novel that confronts readers with uncomfortable truths, forcing them to navigate the tension between Nabokov’s artistic brilliance and the disturbing subject matter at its core. Its masterful prose and complex narrative continue to provoke debate and discussion, solidifying its place as a landmark in 20th-century literature. While not for everyone, it remains a book that challenges readers' perceptions of morality, guilt and the power of language. 

References

Nabokov, Vladimir. Lolita. Olympia Press, 1955.  

Nabokov, Vladimir. Lolita. Vintage International, 1997.   

Appel, Alfred, Jr. The Annotated Lolita. Vintage Books, 1991.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What inspired Vladimir Nabokov to write Lolita?

Nabokov was inspired to write Lolita by various sources, including a real-life case in 1948 involving the abduction of an 11-year-old girl. Additionally, his fascination with exploring human psychology, obsession and the moral complexities of art played a role in the creation of the novel. However, Nabokov himself emphasized that Lolita should not be reduced to a simple moral fable.

What is the significance of the title Lolita?

The title Lolita is significant because it reflects Humbert Humbert’s distorted view of Dolores Haze, the young girl he obsesses over. He gives her the nickname "Lolita," which objectifies her and reduces her to an idealized version of the innocent yet provocative "nymphet" he desires. The title has since become culturally synonymous with the sexualization of young girls.

Why is Lolita considered a literary masterpiece?

Lolita is considered a literary masterpiece for its stunning prose, intricate narrative structure and complex portrayal of human emotions and moral dilemmas. Nabokov’s linguistic brilliance, with its use of wordplay, allusions and metafictional elements, elevates the novel beyond its controversial subject matter. The way he crafts an unreliable narrator in Humbert and engages readers in the tension between beauty and horror is often seen as groundbreaking.

How does Nabokov depict Lolita’s perspective in the novel?

Nabokov gives Lolita little voice in the novel, as most of the story is told from Humbert’s perspective. However, through subtle cues, such as her rebellious behavior and expressions of distress, readers can discern her suffering and the impact of Humbert’s actions. This limited view of Lolita’s inner world has been a point of critical discussion, raising questions about how her victimhood is portrayed.

How does Lolita challenge traditional views of morality?

Lolita challenges traditional views of morality by forcing readers to confront the perspectives of a pedophile without overtly moralizing the narrative. Nabokov presents Humbert’s actions in such a way that readers must engage with the uncomfortable tension between his charm and the repulsiveness of his deeds. The novel raises questions about whether it is possible to appreciate art that explores morally reprehensible topics.