Emitting a series of sonorous chuckles, Nabokov opened the door of a large, red brick house.
The scantly furnished interior had a transitory air which Nabokov quickly explained.
We are birds of passage. When someone goes on leave, we take over. We’ve never owned a home….
Reactions of Lolita’s reviewers?
Some simply haven’t read the book or don’t understand it. It is not obscene; it has none of the dirt of many so-called realistic modern novels.
“Most critics have failed to stress the pathetic side,” said Mrs. Nabokov. “It’s really a tragic story. Here, in the hands of this maniac is this poor girl—.” “And a very ordinary girl—” Nabokov put in….
Recently we’ve received some wonderful reviews from smaller newspapers, in Texas and places like that. We didn’t expect them and it’s gratifying. America has lived up to her liberal heritage in this.
Repercussions of Lolita on his role at Cornell?
Absolutely none. Both faculty and students have been extremely serious and intelligent in their approach. It has made me feel very warm inside.
Your response to Dr. Zhivago and Pasternak’s Nobel Prize?
The political aspect does not interest me. Of course, I’m sure the Soviets are really pleased with the whole thing. They’ve attracted a lot of attention and they get the royalties.
However, my concern is with the artistic character of a novel. From this point of view, Dr. Zhivago is a sorry thing, full of clichés, clumsy, trivial and melodramatic.
Your immediate future?
Just now there is a great deal to be done. I’m controlling a French translation of Lolita. Some of my early novels, originally written in Russian, will be coming out. I’m applying for a sabbatical leave. We’ll probably go to California next summer, then to Europe.
* “What Hath Lolita Wrought? Ithaca Author Distressed by Some Reactions,” Elmira Telegram, Dec. 14, 1958. Elmira is a city close to Ithaca.