In Vladimir Nabokov's "Lolita," the narrator presents a complex portrayal of the young girl, Lolita, through a play on her names. Each variation of her name reflects different aspects of her identity and the context in which she exists. From Lo, a diminutive form, to the more formal Dolores, these names encapsulate her transformation in various settings, revealing how identity can shift based on circumstances.

The iconic quote emphasizes the physicality of language and desire as the narrator describes how he savors her name, reminiscent of a cherished experience. The meticulous articulation of "Lolita" symbolizes both affection and obsession, highlighting the duality of the narrator's feelings—love and an unsettling fixation. This complex interplay between identity and desire lies at the heart of the novel.