I have to disagree with the characterization of Lolita. it's the magnificent prose of the narrator that seduces us. It is Nabokov's skill as a writer that makes us turn toward Humbert rather than away from him. It is the artistic challenge he set for himself, and he succeeds.
There are certain works of literature where the style is so strong that it overcomes the “plot.” I just read The Handmaid’s Tale for the first time and the writing was so good that it often overcame the horror it describes.
I think that is actually the point Trilling was making. That the reader is seduced and pulled into sympathy by Humbert's "complex prose style" and only gradually realizes what that has drawn them into complicity with.
Great piece. Surprised not to see his prior books, especially the underrated Mr. Peanut, not mentioned.
Also as more of an editorial matter, your reference to the page count made me realize that although there was a link to the publisher's page there was no internal reference to publisher, page count, etc. which actually is useful when reading a review of a book.
I have to disagree with the characterization of Lolita. it's the magnificent prose of the narrator that seduces us. It is Nabokov's skill as a writer that makes us turn toward Humbert rather than away from him. It is the artistic challenge he set for himself, and he succeeds.
That’s a fair read! I don’t think it’s incompatible with Trilling’s interpretation FWIW.
There are certain works of literature where the style is so strong that it overcomes the “plot.” I just read The Handmaid’s Tale for the first time and the writing was so good that it often overcame the horror it describes.
I think that is actually the point Trilling was making. That the reader is seduced and pulled into sympathy by Humbert's "complex prose style" and only gradually realizes what that has drawn them into complicity with.
Great piece. Surprised not to see his prior books, especially the underrated Mr. Peanut, not mentioned.
Also as more of an editorial matter, your reference to the page count made me realize that although there was a link to the publisher's page there was no internal reference to publisher, page count, etc. which actually is useful when reading a review of a book.