There is nothing louder than an American hotel; and, mind you, this was supposed to be a quiet, cozy, old-fashioned, homey place - 'gracious living' and all that stuff.
The quote reflects the irony of the hotel experience described in Nabokov's "Lolita," highlighting the stark contrast between expectations and reality. Despite the promise of tranquility and charm, the noise within the American hotel diminishes any sense of comfort or serenity, emphasizing a chaotic atmosphere instead of the intended peacefulness.
This creates a commentary on American culture and hospitality, suggesting that even places designed for relaxation can be overwhelming. The phrase "gracious living" becomes a facade, as the actual experience subverts its meaning, exposing the underlying tensions and dissonance within the environment.
