In "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi reflects on her experiences as a literature professor in Iran, where she navigates the complexities of life under an oppressive regime. The memoir intertwines her love for literature with the struggles of her students, revealing how books provide solace and a form of resistance against tyranny. Through her discussions of classic works, Nafisi reveals the power of literature to evoke deep emotions and foster connections among her students.

The quote "I eat my heart out alone" encapsulates the loneliness and longing for connection that permeates Nabokov's works and Nafisi's own life. It emphasizes the isolation felt by individuals in oppressive societies, where personal passions and desires are often repressed. Nafisi's narrative illustrates how literature becomes a refuge, allowing her and her students to explore their innermost feelings and confront their realities while forging a sense of community through shared narratives.