In Vladimir Nabokov's "Pale Fire," the protagonist reflects on the tension between childhood innocence and adult perception. The quote captures a sense of nostalgia for the imaginative fantasies present in childhood, specifically referencing Edgar Allan Poe, whose work often explores darker themes. This alludes to the idea of revisiting and deconstructing those formative experiences that shape one's identity, while also acknowledging the limitations imposed by adult understanding.

The mention of "strange Nacreous gleams" signifies a mystical, almost otherworldly aspect of childhood memories that remains elusive to adults. This contrast highlights how adults often lose touch with the captivating wonders of their youth, represented by the vivid imagery of nacreous reflections. Nabokov invites readers to reflect on their own childhood experiences and the burgeoning complexities that arise with maturity, suggesting that the imaginative realms of youth persist, even when obscured by adult rationality.