The Nabokov-Wilson letters: Correspondence between Vladimir Nabokov and Edmund Wilson 1940-1971 : Book Review

"The Nabokov-Wilson Letters" is an extraordinary collection of correspondence that unveils the captivating relationship between two literary giants, Vladimir Nabokov and Edmund Wilson. Spanning more than two decades, these letters provide an intimate and compelling look into the creative minds and personal lives of both authors. Their conversations touch on a myriad of subjects, ranging from writing and literature to politics and their shared passion for butterflies. Through their witty banter, profound discussions, and occasional disagreements, readers are treated to a captivating dialogue between two exceptional intellects.

One of the most captivating aspects of "The Nabokov-Wilson Letters" is the deep admiration and respect both authors had for each other's work. Their letters are permeated with discussions about literature, including recommendations and critiques. As they dissected each other's work with meticulous precision, readers gain valuable insights into their creative process and literary theories.

Beyond the realm of literature, the letters offer glimpses into the personal lives of Nabokov and Wilson. They cheer each other on in times of success, lend a sympathetic ear during moments of despair, and provide unwavering support and encouragement. These personal anecdotes and observations add a layer of warmth and humanity to their exchange, elevating it beyond a mere academic discourse.

Moreover, "The Nabokov-Wilson Letters" serves as a window into the political and social landscape of their time. Nabokov and Wilson engage in lively debates about subjects such as communism, totalitarianism, and the civil rights movement. By exploring these topics, their correspondence reveals their intellectual curiosity and how the world around them influenced their literary endeavors.

To sum up, "The Nabokov-Wilson Letters" is a compelling read that will captivate literature enthusiasts and fans of both authors. It not only showcases the brilliance of Nabokov and Wilson, but also provides a glimpse into their unique friendship and intellectual kinship. With its wealth of knowledge and insight, this collection is a valuable addition to any bookshelf, offering readers a deeper understanding of these two literary giants.

What are readers saying?

The book titled "The Nabokov-Wilson Letters," which consists of the correspondence between Vladimir Nabokov and Edmund Wilson, has received both acclaim and criticism from readers. This collection offers a unique insight into the intellectual debates and literary friendship between these two esteemed writers. Overall, the reviews have been mixed.

Readers, in general, have appreciated the depth and insight provided by the letters. They found them fascinating and enjoyed the opportunity to observe the exchange of ideas between Nabokov and Wilson. The book has been seen as a valuable resource for understanding the literary and cultural context in which these writers operated. Some readers specifically mentioned that the letters shed light on the creative processes and motivations behind their respective works.

However, some reviewers expressed disappointment with the structure and organization of the book. They felt that the letters were presented in a disjointed manner, making it difficult to follow the chronological progression of the correspondence. Additionally, some reviewers believed that certain letters included in the collection were unnecessary and did not contribute significantly to understanding the friendship between the two authors.

Another point of contention among readers was the accessibility of the letters. Some reviewers felt that the book assumed a certain level of familiarity with Nabokov and Wilson's works, which made it challenging for those less informed about their writing to fully engage with the material. However, there were readers who appreciated the academic nature of the letters and considered them stimulating for dedicated literary enthusiasts.

Lastly, there were a few criticisms regarding the length of the book. Some readers found it to be overly long, making it a daunting read for those with limited time or less interest in the topic. On the other hand, others appreciated the extensive collection of letters, which provided a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the two writers.

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