Vladimir Nabokov

NABOKV-L post 0007560, Sun, 9 Feb 2003 09:55:46 -0800

Subject
Query about Passages from Nabokov (fwd)
Date
Body
From: Vladimir Mylnikov <vmylnikov@yahoo.com>

From Megan Lee:

As a teacher of English as a Second Language, I
suggest that students aquire a sense of the beauty of
the language by reading short passages of literature
and poetry. There is a point in the language-learning
process when students become weary with textbook
English. At this low-to-middle intermediate level I
introduce the best representations of English I can
find that are manageable for their vocabulary
limitations. I'm specifically looking for a passage
that would not be overly difficult for E.S.L.
students, (although a glossary will be studied with
the passage), that demonstrates excellency of writing.

Nabokov switched languages mid-career and wrote
in English with far more beauty, skill and interest
than native writers. I think he is the ideal writer
to introduce to new immigrants. My query to the list
members is:

What short passage (or poem) would you suggest for
these students? The length should be about a half to
one page.

Thank you for your suggestions - Megan