In "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi captures the oppressive atmosphere of Iran under strict Islamic rule, where personal freedoms are severely limited. The author reflects on her experiences teaching Western literature to a group of female students, who find solace and empowerment through the stories. These literary discussions become a form of resistance against the authoritarian regime that suppresses individual expression and undermines their rights.

Nafisi's quote highlights the pervasive anger and despair among individuals in society, who resort to spreading negative messages as a reflection of their inner turmoil. The imagery of "angry, pathological individuals" suggests a deep-seated discontent with the state of the world. Through her memoir, Nafisi illustrates how literature can serve as a beacon of hope, offering an escape from the harsh realities of life and encouraging a quest for identity and freedom.