The way we communicate is often just as important as what we say. In "Speak, Memory," most of the characters are fluent in at least two languages, and those that aren't feel left out. In the Nabokovs' world, language is a sign of class and culture. Russian peasants may only know Russian, but young Vladimir knows Russian, English, and French, plus some Latin. But for Vladimir as a wet-behind-the-ear writer, Russian is inexplicably his go-to.
Later, once he gets to Cambridge, the Russian language becomes a strong part of his identity, and as an émigré writer, Vladimir is part of a group who may no longer make money writing, and so must translate texts and tutor students in English. Let's not forget that the book itself was translated from English to Russian to English. And here we are complaining about Spanish homework…
Questions About Language & Communication
- Are there points in the book that reveal that one language is simply better for saying one thing or another?
- How are characters in the book punished or rewarded for their language skills?
- Vladimir's mother read to him in English, while his nanny Mademoiselle nearly hypnotized him with her French. How are different languages wrapped up in different relationships and emotions for young Vladimir?
Chew on This
When Vladimir loses his Russian home, he also loses a closeness to the Russian language. His identity is inextricably tied up with language.
Vladimir chooses Russian to write poetry because he believes it connects him to his family and ancestry.