In Vladimir Nabokov's "Pnin," the narrative delves into the complexities of human existence and the often-painful realities that accompany it. The quote reflects on the notion that true sincerity with oneself can lead to a disconnection from conscience, especially in a world where tragic events, like Mira's death, occur. This implies that the harshness of reality can extinguish the moral awareness and emotional understanding that typically define human consciousness.
The idea...