“Lolita: Oh my Carmen, my little Carmen…Humbert: Charmin’ Carmen. Started garglin’Lolita: I remember those sultry nightsHumbert: Those pre-raphaelitesLolita: No, come on. And the stars and the cars and the bars and the barmen.Humbert: And the bars that sparkled and the cars that parkled…And the curs that barkled and the birds that larkled.Lolita: And oh my charmin, our dreadful fightsHumbert: Such dreadful blightsLolita: And the something town where arm in…arm, we went, and our final row, and the gun I killed you with, o my Carmen…the gun I am holding now”
Analysis of Quote from "Lolita" by Vladimir Nabokov
In this extract from Vladimir Nabokov's novel "Lolita," the characters Lolita and Humbert engage in a playful and somewhat twisted conversation. The repetition of sounds and playful language between Lolita and Humbert creates a sense of intimacy and shared memories, while also hinting at darker undertones. The juxtaposition of seemingly innocent references to stars and bars with references to fights and guns foreshadows the complex and tumultuous relationship between Lolita and Humbert. This passage captures the disturbing yet captivating nature of their relationship, showcasing Nabokov's skillful use of language to convey complex emotions and themes.
Modern Relevance
In this excerpt from Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita," the twisted relationship between Humbert and Lolita is portrayed in a darkly humorous and disturbing way. The banter between the two characters reveals the dysfunctional nature of their bond, marked by violence and manipulation. This passage exemplifies the complex and morally ambiguous themes that continue to resonate in contemporary literature and discussions surrounding power dynamics, obsession, and the dark side of human relationships.
Example of Usage:
In this excerpt from Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita," the characters Lolita and Humbert engage in a playful and twisted conversation, showcasing their complex and tumultuous relationship. Through their banter, we see the dark and unsettling nature of their interactions.
Reflection Questions:
This excerpt from Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita" showcases the complicated and tumultuous relationship between Lolita and Humbert. Reflect on the following questions to delve deeper into the themes presented in this dialogue:
- How does the back-and-forth banter between Lolita and Humbert reflect the twisted nature of their relationship?
- What do the references to stars, cars, bars, and barmen symbolize in this conversation?
- What do you think the mention of a gun and killing signifies in their dialogue?
- How does the language and rhythm of this conversation contribute to the overall tone of the passage?
- In what ways does this excerpt highlight the manipulation and control Humbert holds over Lolita?
Similar quotes
“My Carmen," I said (I used to call her that sometimes) "we shall leave this raw sore town as soon as you get out of bed." "... Because, really," I continued, "there is no point in staying here." "There is no point in staying anywhere," said Lolita.”
“Between the ‘death bridge’ and our little chat with the Queen of the Damned, I’ve decided I should carry a gun at all times; whether it’s to defend myself or to put myself out of my own misery,” Carmen rambled on nervously. “It’s a win-win situation, really.”
“The stars that sparkled, and the cars that parkled, and the bars, and the barmen, were presently taken over by her”
“Lena always described how she dreaded and mourned things before they even happened. Carmen was beginning to suspect that she was permitting herself to mourn this long separation only now that it was over.”
“Not even you can reach me here, Carmen thought.”