In "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi reflects on the challenging times during the Iranian Revolution when fear and uncertainty pervaded daily life. Despite the constant threat of violence and bombs, she found her concentration and creativity heightened during sleepless nights. This unusual focus emerged as a defense mechanism against the chaos surrounding her, showing how literature can provide solace even in dark times.

Nafisi's experiences highlight the power of reading to offer refuge and clarity amidst turmoil. By engaging deeply with literature, she creates a contrast between the oppressive reality outside and the imaginative freedom found within the pages of books. This memoir illustrates how the pursuit of art and knowledge can serve as a lifeline during the most difficult circumstances.