EDNOTE. Russian journalist and Nabokovian
Aleksandr Svirilin sends in a short-short story by Vladimir Voinovich, best
known for his (serio-)novels about Ivan Chonkin, a sort of Russian Soldier
SHvejk. Voinovich was among the writers forced to emigrate under Brezhnev.
The story (which I had not seen before) was written during the time of his
decision to leave (circa 1980). In a dream state he blends himself with his
namesake Vladimir (Nabokov). The story, really a trifle, is interesting to
Nabokovians for two reasons: 1) its use of VN and a few lines weakly imitating
his style; 2) its negative attitude toward LOLITA; and 3) its picture of
the ambiguity that many Russians felt about expatriation.
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Saturday, June 19, 2004 11:26 PM
Subject: Short story by Voinovich
In short story Etyud by famous Russian writer Vladimir Voinovich
hero imaging what he is Vladimir Nabokov. See attachment.
Best, Aleksandr