You have to be an artist and a madman, a creature of infinite melancholy,... in order to discern at once, by ineffable signs,...the little deadly demon...; she stands unrecognized by them and unconscious herself of her fantastic power.
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The quote from "Lolita" by Vladimir Nabokov expresses the complex nature of perception and artistry. It suggests that one must possess a blend of artistic vision and a touch of madness to truly perceive the subtle and often unseen forces that shape human experience. This delicate balance enables the artist to recognize the profound impact of certain intangible elements that others may overlook.
Nabokov refers to a "little deadly demon," symbolizing the powerful and often unconscious influences that operate beneath the surface of everyday life. This character, unrecognized by those around her, represents the hidden depths of desire and consciousness. Through this lens, the author hints at the enigmatic nature of existence where beauty and danger often intertwine in the human psyche.
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