The quote from Nabokov's "Ada, or Ardor: A Family Chronicle" captures the complexity of self-awareness and memory. It evokes imagery of a solitary figure, suggesting an introspection that feels both distant and familiar. This figure, hesitating at the threshold, represents an uncertain aspect of our past selves, indicating that self-discovery can often be a daunting journey. The narrowing corridor symbolizes how one's understanding of identity can become more defined, yet also more constrained over time.

Nabokov's choice of words paints a vivid scene that reflects the nuances of recollection and the interplay between light and shadow, emblematic of how we perceive both our strengths and uncertainties. The metaphor of arriving as a late guest underscores the tension between our past experiences and our present selves, suggesting that while we grow and learn, we may still feel disconnected from our earlier identities. This thought-provoking imagery urges readers to explore their inner lives and the shadows of their history.