Literary Exploration discussion

Let us know your final thoughts here.

I have to admit that I went into this novel with high expectations and preconceived notions.

I cannot find fault with the tale or style...but the premise....she's fourteen!! Sheesh! My reaction probably colored by coming to maturity in the 70's...you know sexual expression not repression...lol!

Nabokov certainly is a weaver of words...the reader can definitely get caught up, however it all left a less than pleasant taste in my mouth. I suppose that was part of the purpose/intent. I was stuck on the idea of Humbert and his less than savory desires being less than palatable.

I really liked this book, this was the second read through for me, so I knew what to expect with all the sickening parts. There is a real beauty in the writing and while Humbert tries to show remorse the reader would never forgive him for what he did. From a literary point of view there are so many wonderful elements to explore within this book.

I'm close to finishing it. It's been sort of an average read for me (probably 3 stars), but I'm liking it much more than I thought I would. I do have to say that the author's writing style is fantastic. I definitely can see the satirical part of the book too. So, I read somewhere that Quilty is considered sort of a doppelganger for Humbert, a part of himself. Did anyone else see that angle while reading?

Also, I'm curious as who has seen either of the film versions (either the 1962 James Mason version or the 1997 Jeremy Irons version). I notice that the James Mason version really has a good deal of humor in it.

I have read this book 3 times at various ages. It's interesting how your views on much of the suject matter changes over the years. It is still one of my favourite books and I will probably continue to read it every 7 years or so.

Lisa, although this is my first read of this book, I can see your point. I've reread books before and have had much better views of them the second and third time around. I finished this novel a day or so ago, and actually am more impressed with it than my initial reaction to the novel. I think it has a quality that is very misunderstood (not sure if that is the most accurate word, but I'll go with it).

Not my cup of tea, I'm afraid. This was required reading in my university class on Narrative Forms, and it was a real chore to get through. Defninitely NOT a book I will ever read again.