The Cambridge Companion to Nabokov (Cambridge Companions to Literature)

Cambridge University Press, 9/8/2010
EAN 9780521536431, ISBN10: 052153643X

Paperback, 288 pages, 22.8 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm
Language: English

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.