The quote "Imagine me; I shall not exist if you do not imagine me" from Vladimir Nabokov's novel Lolita highlights the profound connection between perception and existence. It suggests that for a person or concept to have meaning or significance, they must be recognized and envisioned by others. This underscores the idea that identity can be shaped by the thoughts and feelings of those around us, emphasizing the subjective nature of reality.
In the context of Lolita, this quote reflects the intricacies of the protagonist's obsession and the way he perceives the titular character. It reveals the depth of his longing and the reliance on imagination to create and sustain a relationship that ultimately may not exist in reality. Nabokov's narrative explores themes of desire, manipulation, and the blurred lines between fantasy and truth.