In Nabokov's "Ada, or Ardor," the quote illustrates the complex relationship we have with our past selves. It evokes a sense of nostalgia and introspection, suggesting that our memories often present us with a figure representing a younger version of ourselves, hesitant yet significant. This figure, casting a long shadow, symbolizes the lingering impact of our formative experiences, which can feel like a visitor returning to our present.

The imagery of a narrowing corridor emphasizes how our past is both a distant memory and an intimate part of our current identity. As we traverse through life, we may confront our previous selves, who stand at the threshold of our consciousness, contributing to our understanding of who we are today. The past, depicted as an "uncertain belated visitor," invites reflection on the intertwined nature of memory, identity, and time.