In "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi reflects on a conversation where someone expresses surprise at the state of their situation, questioning if it was ever anticipated. The response highlights a collective responsibility for the circumstances that led to the formation of the Islamic Republic, suggesting that the outcomes were, in some part, deserved due to prior actions and choices.

This acknowledgment of shared accountability underscores a broader theme of the book, where Nafisi explores the impact of political events on personal lives and the complexities of navigating a society shaped by such a regime. The sentiment conveyed encapsulates a poignant lesson about the importance of awareness and engagement in political affairs, illustrating how complacency can lead to dire consequences.