Nabokov, History and the Texture of Time

This study examines how Vladimir Nabokov’s fiction engages with social and political histories, revealing the complexities of his temporal manipulations while addressing the ethical and aesthetic implications of his historical denial.

Nabokov, History and the Texture of Time presents a compelling examination of the intricate relationship between Vladimir Nabokov's fiction and historical context. The author argues that Nabokov's apparent detachment from history actually reveals a deep engagement with social and political temporalities. While many scholars have viewed Nabokov's works as historically exceptional, this study seeks to reconnect his narratives with the tumultuous ideological conflicts of the twentieth century, both in Europe and the United States.

The book investigates how Nabokov’s unique manipulation of time serves as a defensive mechanism against historical realities, allowing him to preserve the autonomy of fiction. By analyzing his American writings in light of significant historical events, the author highlights the tensions between Nabokov's aesthetic ambitions and the chaotic realities of his time. The exploration of Nabokov’s understanding of history and aesthetics, from nineteenth-century Russia through modernism to the postwar era, provides a nuanced perspective on his literary contributions.

Furthermore, the study challenges the notion of Nabokov as a heroic figure resisting history. It suggests that his denial of historical engagement comes with ethical, aesthetic, and political implications. By rethinking Nabokov's position within literary history and examining the ideological currents that shape his work, Nabokov, History and the Texture of Time invites readers to reconsider the significance of temporal aesthetics in navigating the complexities of modernism.