Day: November 30, 2007

By Vladmir Nabokov. 315p. I read this for the Second Chances challenge as I have already read Lolita. The books are different, this one being far more postmodernist than the latter. Though, Nabokov’s distinct style is present in both of these book. This work is very interesting, unique, and layered. I’m not going to say it was enjoyable at all times because I was confused at parts, amused at others, and bored intermittently. It has a lot of references and allusions, and there is more than one story to be read. It’s the type of book I would like to analyze in a classroom setting, but I’d probably be sick of it pretty quickly too as a result. It is funny in parts and full of twisted black humor and ironic, strange narration. The plot is told in a nonlinear way, and as a reader, it can be daunting going in to all this.  The characters (or character really) are hard to grasp because of the narrative style, and pathos is not the point. There are many interpretations of the book itself. The prose is quite good, and it is interesting albeit perplexing. It is clearly not a book for everyone, and in my humble opinion, I don’t think the book should be taken too seriously. The book was interesting enough for me to continue and look forward to reading more Nabokov.

Appetizer
What is your favorite carnival/amusement park ride?

I haven’t been to either in years. I’m not big on them. I’ve never been on a roller coaster either. I use to like the merry go round as a kid.

Soup
How do you react in uncomfortable social situations?

I usually try and excuse myself and run away to be alone or find a friend/ally.

Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy discussing deep, philosophical topics?

It depends on with which people because “deep, philosphical topics” varies between people. In general, I’ll say an 8.5.

Main Course
Did you get a flu shot this year? If not, do you plan to?

No, I have not gotten a flu shot for a few years. I’ll get it if the opportunity to go to a flu clinic or whatever, but generally no.

Dessert
Approximately how many hours per week do you spend watching television?

Since the WGA strike, I watch a couple hours less. At present, I will say about 5.