I always had a hankering for the security of impossible dreams.
In her memoir "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi reflects on the pursuit of unattainable dreams, capturing her longing for a sense of security amidst chaos. Her experiences in Iran, particularly under a restrictive regime, highlight the contrasting desires for freedom and the comfort of idealistic aspirations. The phrase “I always had a hankering for the security of impossible dreams” represents a profound yearning for hope and refuge in literature and the ideals it embodies.
Nafisi’s narrative is a testament to the power of books as a means of escape and self-discovery in a world filled with challenges. Through her love for literature, she finds solace and strength, using stories and characters to navigate her reality. The memoir illustrates how these "impossible dreams" offer not just solace but also a framework for understanding her life and the broader societal struggles she faces.