By this time I was in a state of excitement bordering on insanity; but I also had the cunning of the insane.
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In this excerpt from Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita," the narrator conveys a heightened emotional state, teetering on the edge of madness. The feelings of excitement that overtake him suggest a tumultuous experience, where rationality begins to wane. His use of the term "cunning of the insane" illustrates a complex interplay between his fervent emotions and a shrewd awareness of his situation.
This passage reflects the intricate psychological landscape Nabokov paints throughout the novel, emphasizing the duplicity of desire and rational thought. The narrator's intense emotional turmoil serves as a driving force in the narrative, showcasing how fervor can cloud judgment and lead to morally ambiguous decisions.
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