You came into my life-not as one comes to visit {you know, "not taking one's hat off"} but as one comes to a kingdom where all the rivers have been waiting for your reflection, all the roads, for your steps.
In Vladimir Nabokov's "Letters to Vera," the author beautifully expresses the deep and transformative impact of love. He describes how the arrival of a significant person in his life is unlike a casual visit; instead, it feels like a grand homecoming. This metaphor suggests that the individual brings a sense of belonging, purpose, and renewal, reminiscent of how a kingdom awaits its rightful ruler.
The imagery of rivers longing for reflection and roads waiting for footsteps emphasizes the profound connection between the speaker and the beloved. Such vivid metaphors convey the idea that love has the power to change one's existence, making everything in life seem brighter and more meaningful. Through these words, Nabokov highlights the beauty and depth of emotional bonds.