Vladimir Nabokov held the unique distinction of being one of the most important writers of the twentieth century in two separate languages, Russian and English. Known for his verbal mastery and bold plots, Nabokov fashioned a literary legacy that continues to grow in significance. This 2005 volume offers a concise and informative introduction into the author's fascinating creative world. Specially commissioned essays by distinguished scholars illuminate numerous facets of the writer's legacy, from his early contributions as a poet and short-story writer to his dazzling achievements as one of the most original novelists of the twentieth century. Topics receiving fresh coverage include Nabokov's narrative strategies, the evolution of his world-view, and his relationship to the literary and cultural currents of his day. The volume also contains valuable supplementary material such as a chronology of the writer's life and a guide to further critical reading.
Chronology; Introduction: the many faces of Vladimir Nabokov Julian W. Connolly; Part I. Contexts: 1. Strong opinions and nerve points: Nabokov's life and art Zoran Kuzmanovich; 2. Nabokov as storyteller Brian Boyd; 3. Nabokov as a Russian writer Alexander Dolinin; 4. 'By some sleight of land': how Nabokov rewrote America Susan Elizabeth Sweeney; 5. Nabokov and modernism John Burt Foster, Jr.; Part II. Works: 6. Nabokov as poet Barry Scherr; 7. Nabokov's short fiction Priscilla Meyer; 8. The major Russian novels Julian W. Connolly; 9. From Sirin to Nabokov: the transition to English Neil Cornwell; 10. Nabokov's biographical impulse: art of writing lives Galya Diment; 11. The Lolita phenomenon from Paris to Tehran Ellen Pifer; 12. Nabokov's late fiction Michael Wood; Part III. Related Worlds: 13. Nabokov and cinema Barbara Wyllie; 14. Nabokov's world view Leona Toker; A guide to further reading.
