Ada, or Ardor: A Family Chronicle

Almost too challenging, but consistently enchanting

Ada is likely Nabokov's most difficult book. Every sentence contains some sort of obscure reference, bilingual pun, or tongue twister. What there is to understanding is beautiful beyond words, as Nabokov's prose conjures imagery of some fantastical Wonderland that you adore spending your time in. I don't believe it is a perfect book, thought it may be a perfect Nabokov book. As the author believed in texture and not text, the book is all texture with almost no text. To explain: details aplenty but little in the way of plot or a forward moving narrative. But you cannot fault an author for his personal style.

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

A complex and visceral love story

By turns creepy, depraved, and heartbreakingly beautiful, Ada is a first-person account of lifelong love. It's also a story of mental illness, incest, tragedy, and family disintegration. Nabokov's richest, most Shakespearean writing is on display here, and the depth of emotional complexity is devastating. The whole novel aches with layered meanings and ambiguities of feeling and implication. It is like remembering the summers of childhood.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

A Real Feeling Of Love From A One And Only Writer.

Nabokov's 'Ada' Simply has become one of my favorite Books that i have ever read. The first part of the book is a incredible fairytale which recalls 'Alice In Wonderland' --the Humor is rampant and Candid and the feeling of the joy which Nabokov Must of had while writing the book is entirely evident.. Anybody whom says that this book is not Good -- Muat Be Kidding ! it is amazing what Nabokov Could Do with the English Language.. An Essential Work throughout.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

My favourite book...

This is a wonderful chronicle of love and passion. I was challenged by Nabokov's literary style and entertained by his creative use of puns and intermingling expressions of the three languages that he commanded so well. The story itself is edgy, romantic, and intriguing. I was captivated by every sentence.

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