In the novel "Lolita" by Vladimir Nabokov, the narrator expresses surreal and whimsical imagery, conveying a sense of playful nostalgia and bittersweet joy. The phrase "I am just winking happy thoughts into a little tiddle cup" captures the paradox of innocence mingled with darker themes, suggesting a moment of fleeting joy in a complex emotional landscape.
This quote reflects the narrator's attempt to hold onto brief, joyful moments amidst a tumultuous existence. The whimsical nature of the imagery paints a picture of a longing for simple pleasures, contrasting sharply with the deeper, more troubling elements of the story. It encapsulates Nabokov's intricate style, where lighthearted expressions often mask profound underlying pain.