“He broke my heart. You merely broke my life.”
Notably controversial, this is an upsetting, tragic book with beautiful writing about Humbert's ugly thoughts and actions towards an underaged girl, "Lolita".
Not only was this an upsetting read, but it was also an uncomfortable one, specifically because the writing on one hand is so layered and beautiful, but the content is quite the contrary. I have avoided this book for so long, as it's no secret what it's about.
Humbert is as unapologetic as it gets in detailing his dirty thoughts and terrible actions, and he's very aware that what he's thinking and doing are wrong. His tone is almost a pleading one, begging for pity from his readers as he tries to justify his monstrous actions and thoughts quite eloquently. Certain explanations from him almost made him seem pathetic to me, because there's just no excuse for having sex with an underaged child, no matter how much he gracefully and articulately tried to tell us otherwise.
There is no doubt that this is a gorgeously written book, but I understand that it can be hard to separate the appreciation of the writing style from the horrors of the content. The power of language can be such a beautiful yet dangerous thing. This book challenges you as a reader.
I feel so very sorry for Lolita. Her life was knowingly ruined by Humbert. He knew exactly what he was doing, aware of all the psychological impacts his actions would have on her, yet he selfishly continued. It makes you feel disgusted and sad, as her life would never be the same. Perhaps those are some of the words I would use to describe this book- a disgusting, sad and disturbing account of a pathetic, selfish man who writes beautifully and eloquently about his despicable, pedophilic actions and thoughts.
This book is always on a "Top 100 Books to Read Before You Die " or "Best Books Ever" lists so I at least wanted to give it a try, and I'm glad I did- despite the discomfort of reading it. I feel like I could write an essay on this book, and I love when a piece of art has that powerful effect. All I can say is, if you haven't already read this book, Reader Beware.
This book is part of my Top 100 Books of All Time Challenge.
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