The quote from Vladimir Nabokov’s "Speak, Memory" reflects a deep sense of nostalgia for his childhood rather than a focus on material loss. Nabokov emphasizes that his longing is tied to memories of a simpler, more innocent time in his life, encapsulating the essence of youth that remains irreplaceable. This creates a vivid picture of how personal memories shape our identities and emotional landscapes.

By describing his nostalgia as "hypertrophied," Nabokov indicates that these memories have grown larger in his mind over time, emphasizing their significance. The contrast with the notion of "lost banknotes" suggests that his true sense of loss is not about financial matters but about the fleeting beauty of childhood experiences. Ultimately, this insight underscores the poignant relationship between memory and our understanding of the past.