In Vladimir Nabokov's "Laughter in the Dark," a character reflects on his romantic entanglements with a sense of irony and disappointment. The phrase highlights a sense of inadequacy in love, suggesting that the forces guiding his feelings are both flawed and uninspired. The use of "Cupid," a symbol of love, here portrays it as clumsy and ineffective, underscoring the complexities and potential absurdities found in relationships.

This description points to the underlying theme of misfortune in romantic pursuits. The weak chin and lack of imagination of the left-handed Cupid serve as a metaphor for how misguided or poorly conceived love can feel, revealing Nabokov's sharp wit and critical take on passion. The suggestion is that not all acts of love are grand or noble, instead often appearing comically tragic, reflecting the complexities of human emotion.