In Azar Nafisi's "Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books," she articulates a profound perspective on the nature of fiction. She argues that even in the face of harsh realities, great literary works embody a spirit of life and resilience. Authors reshape reality through their narratives, offering readers an escape into newly imagined worlds. This creative process serves as a form of defiance against life's inherent transience and struggles.

Nafisi contends that every remarkable piece of art can be seen as a celebration that challenges the darker aspects of existence. The artistic expression found within literature and other forms defies the pain and betrayal experienced in life, creating an aesthetic rebellion against harsh realities. The beauty of artistic form transforms the often ugly and grim subjects into something that transcends mere survival, instead embracing a celebration of life and human spirit.