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Absorbing Quote by Vladimir Nabokov

“And yet I am happy. Yes, happy. I swear. I swear that I am happy...What does it matter that I am a bit cheap, a bit foul, and that no one appreciates all the remarkable things about me-my fantasy, my erudition, my literary gift...I am happy that I can gaze at myself, for any man is absorbing-yes…” quote by Vladimir Nabokov
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“And yet I am happy. Yes, happy. I swear. I swear that I am happy...What does it matter that I am a bit cheap, a bit foul, and that no one appreciates all the remarkable things about me-my fantasy, my erudition, my literary gift...I am happy that I can gaze at myself, for any man is absorbing-yes, really absorbing! ... I am happy-yes, happy!”

Vladimir Nabokov

About This Quote

Source Novel: Ada, 1969

Even with flaws and lack of recognition, one can find genuine happiness in self‑acceptance.

In simple terms: Self‑acceptance brings happiness despite flaws.

Key Takeaway

Embrace yourself, find joy.

Themes

self‑acceptance happiness identity

Mood

introspective celebratory

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • creative work
  • personal reflection
  • social isolation
  • esteem issues

Key Concepts

existentialism literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does happiness mean to you?
  • How do you reconcile self‑love with external judgment?
A Different Perspective

Happiness may be fragile and socially misunderstood.

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