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A review by mercilala
Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Contains spoilers!
It's one of the most thought-provoking classics I have ever read. However, it was so hard to read - took me a lot longer than usually due to the main topic that is - pedophilia. Hambert is a character that disgusts you, as well as makes you wonder how an intellectual can be so crazy and maniacal, yet still maintaining his intelligent remarks.
Nabokov has a way of making the scene dynamic and make me anxious in seconds. When Charlotte finds out about Hambert's diary, even though I've been waiting all this time for her to finally realize what is really happening to her daughter, I still felt anxious - and I believe it was very intentional of Nabokov, because she dies a few moments later.
Dolly had so many chances to run away from Hambert, (even Hambert points it out, not understanding why) yet she stayed. It is the case for many situations where a predator traps the victim, they are more afraid of the unknown that comes after leaving the well known abuse.
I love the way Nabokov writes descriptions - they change along with Hambert's emotions. They weree so vivid that sometimes made me wanted to puke when the description was about Dolly's appearance.
Definitely a book that you can't get through easily, but a must read that made me want to read more of Nabokov's books.
It's one of the most thought-provoking classics I have ever read. However, it was so hard to read - took me a lot longer than usually due to the main topic that is - pedophilia. Hambert is a character that disgusts you, as well as makes you wonder how an intellectual can be so crazy and maniacal, yet still maintaining his intelligent remarks.
Dolly had so many chances to run away from Hambert, (even Hambert points it out, not understanding why) yet she stayed. It is the case for many situations where a predator traps the victim, they are more afraid of the unknown that comes after leaving the well known abuse.
I love the way Nabokov writes descriptions - they change along with Hambert's emotions. They weree so vivid that sometimes made me wanted to puke when the description was about Dolly's appearance.
Definitely a book that you can't get through easily, but a must read that made me want to read more of Nabokov's books.