Vladimir Nabokov's quote, "We think not in words but in shadows of words," suggests that our thoughts are often abstract and incomplete representations of our ideas rather than fully formed verbal expressions. It implies that language is a limited tool for conveying the intricacies of human thought and experience. The shadows of words indicate the nuances and unspoken emotions behind our communications, hinting at the deeper layers of meaning that remain unexpressed.

This perspective emphasizes the complexity of human cognition and the challenges of articulation. It invites readers to reflect on how language can sometimes fail to capture the richness of our inner lives. Nabokov's insight encourages us to consider the deeper implications behind our speech, recognizing that the true essence of thoughts often lies in what is left unsaid or hinted at through metaphor, imagery, and emotional resonance.