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I could see the corridor window, where the wires-six thin…

“I could see the corridor window, where the wires-six thin black wires-were doing their best to slant up, to ascend skyward, despite the lightning blows dealt them by one telegraph pole after another; but just as all six, in a triumphant swoop of pathetic elation, were about to reach the top of the…” quote by Vladimir Nabokov
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““I could see the corridor window, where the wires-six thin black wires-were doing their best to slant up, to ascend skyward, despite the lightning blows dealt them by one telegraph pole after another; but just as all six, in a triumphant swoop of pathetic elation, were about to reach the top of the window, a particularly vicious blow would bring them down, as low as they had ever been, and they would have to start all over again.””

Vladimir Nabokov

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage depicts fragile attempts to rise, repeatedly thwarted by external forces, symbolizing perseverance amid setbacks.

In simple terms: Attempts to rise are constantly knocked down.

Key Takeaway

Accept setbacks and keep trying.

Themes

perseverance struggle hope

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

literary metaphorical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • creative work
  • overcoming obstacles

Key Concepts

Resilience failure determination

Questions to Reflect On

  • What external forces repeatedly reset your progress?
  • How can you build resilience after setbacks?
A Different Perspective

Progress may be halted by unexpected challenges.

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