Book Review: Lolita

Brief summary

"Lolita" is a novel that speaks the story of Humbert Humbert, a nearly forty year-old man who finds "nymphets" or little girls attractive. Humbert eventually falls in love with his thirteen year-old step daughter, Lolita. 



Book Review

“Lolita, light of my life, fire of my loins. My sin, my soul. Lo-lee-ta: the tip of the tongue taking a trip of three steps down the palate to tap, at three, on the teeth. Lo. Lee. Ta. She was Lo, plain Lo, in the morning, standing four feet ten in one sock. She was Lola in slacks. She was Dolly at school. She was Dolores on the dotted line. But in my arms she was always Lolita.” – Vladimir Nobakov, Lolita

A lot of critics and readers found Nobakovs novel to be obscene and inappropriate, while others thought it was a beautiful art piece worth celebrating.  Until today, a lot of readers still discuss Nobakovs masterpiece, which in my opinion, is a sign of an extraordinary and successful book. I think “Lolita” is a book beautifully written with a unique storyline. Not to mention that Humbert Humbert was the narrator of the story which he successfully deceived the reader into believing that it was pure love and affection that driven him towards Lolita. Humbert Humbert persuades and charms the reader with his charismatic personality and captivating words, forcing the reader to forget about how completely unethical it is to be attracted to little girls. He makes the reader believe that he is merely a hopeless and passionate lover, than a pedophile. A lot of critics argued that Humbert is not a reliable narrator and therefore, does not deserve sympathy. Some may criticize Lolita as being very disturbing; nevertheless, no one can deny that it is a beautifully written piece. Lolita is absolutely one of my favorite books due to the storyline as well as the rhetoric meanings behind every word written!

This book does not need anymore reviews, if any, it is challenging me to read it again!

Your opinion matters..

Since everyone has a different perspective about this book, I decided to gather your point of view on a controversial matter. Let us know your thoughts on Lolita:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/FKX9JC9

Interesting facts:

• The word/name "Lolita" now has a negative connotation. 

• Several publishers refused to accept the book because of its explicit content.

• Lolita is on the List of the 100 Best Novels in the English language from 1923 to 2005.

• Lolita has been filmed more than once, been a musical, four stage-plays, one completed opera, and two ballets.