A review by fflur
Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

challenging dark emotional 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? It's complicated

4.0

Lolita is a beautifully written novel,  filled with poetic prose. The French phrases intertwined with the English enriches the text, and the rapid pace mimics the way H.H.'s thoughts flow in and out of his mind. 

I originally wanted to rate this book incredibly low, given the topic being disturbing and violently horrific. However, upon reflection, I must appreciate the author's ability to evoke such repulsion, along with a host of other negative emotions. 

While the majority of the book focused on Humbert, towards the end I found myself more focused on Dolores (aka Lolita) and her life, or what her life could have been. The description of the emptiness behind her eyes left me experiencing a hollowness, sympathy for a life stolen from her, and for a childhood unfulfilled. 

Before reading this book, potential readers should check the content warnings. The pages upon pages of descriptions of 'nymphets' and his attraction to them left me feeling physically ill. 
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