In "Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books," Azar Nafisi reflects on her experiences teaching Western literature in Iran during the oppressive regime. One notable moment is the comparison between the Islamic Republic of Iran and "The Great Gatsby," which highlights the clash between the ideals of freedom and the realities of censorship. Nafisi uses this literary analysis to explore themes of desire, aspiration, and the complex relationships between individuals and their societies.

Through the lens of Fitzgerald's masterpiece, Nafisi reveals the struggles of her students, who seek beauty and truth in a repressive environment. The book illustrates how literature can serve as both a refuge and a means of resistance against oppressive regimes, allowing individuals to question their reality and envision possibilities beyond their confinement. This dialogue between the text and the political landscape underscores the enduring power of literature in the face of tyranny.