In "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi emphasizes the unique value of fiction in conveying deeper truths that may not be found in real life. She argues that attempting to mold a story into mere realism can diminish its artistic integrity and the profound insights it can offer. Fiction serves as a mirror to our experiences, allowing readers to explore complex ideas and emotions beyond the constraints of reality.

Nafisi suggests that what we seek in literature is not just a reflection of life but an illumination of deeper truths that resonate on a personal level. This pursuit of truth through imagination helps us engage with the complexities of human experience, making fiction an essential component of understanding ourselves and our world more fully.