In "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi reflects on a rare night filled with excitement rather than the usual anxieties and nightmares that typically haunt her. Instead of dreading catastrophic events while lying awake, she experiences a sense of exhilaration that prevents her from succumbing to fear. This feeling contrasts sharply with her usual state of vigilance against disaster.

Nafisi's insight reveals a profound relationship between consciousness and the perception of safety. It suggests that her awareness serves as a protective barrier, allowing her to experience moments of joy and hope amid a life filled with uncertainty. This transformation from fear to exhilaration highlights the power of literature and personal experiences to uplift the spirit even in dire circumstances.