In Vladimir Nabokov's book "Despair," the author plays with language, emphasizing its quirks and absurdities. He takes pleasure in making words appear ridiculous, using puns and unexpected turns of phrases to create a sense of self-awareness within the language itself. This playful manipulation invites readers to consider the depth and humor embedded in communication, revealing the intricacies of expression.

Nabokov's exploration of contrasts—between majesty and jest, the divine and the devilish—adds a layer of complexity to his writing. By posing questions that juxtapose seemingly unrelated images, he provokes thought about the nature of existence and the absurdities of life. This philosophical inquiry into the interplay of language, emotion, and identity is a recurring theme in his work, encouraging readers to reflect on the very fabric of reality.