I had two Nabokovian moments on my recent trip to Boston:
1) I saw this amphora “attributed to The Botkin Class” in Museum of Fine Arts - http://www.davidrumsey.com/amica/amico136454-23383.html. The museum guide did not know the meaning of ‘the Botkin Class’ on the sign. It may have something to do with The Botkin Collection in St. Petersburg in early 20th century. That however leaves “attribution” unclear as other displayed items are attributed to Greek cities where they were created. May be “The Botkin Class” attribution was a mistake and all that is – back reference to original collection.
2) The text well displayed on summary wall of Butterfly Garden in Boston Museum of Science states to stupefied child or spectator, in a matter of established fact, that butterflies and humans have common great, great … grandfather, graciously adding that the number of ‘greats’ is in thousands, not in twos or threes. As if this helps to accept false science of common sense, - also known as vulgarity. The hidden “scientist” had subtle Gogolean touch of inspiration when choosing butterflies to put things to rest. Admittedly curious child is more receptive to fraternity with butterflies then, say, to simple flies or rats. On the other hand, Red Admiral in the end of PF is indeed Hazel.
- George Shimanovich