VLVL2 and NPPF: Kinbote the Schlemihl

Sun Jul 20 00:56:19 CDT 2003

>> Does John Shade possess schlemihl-like tendancies?  How?  Does Charles Kinbote?  How?

While the characterization of Shade in the "Foreward" might parallel the classic "schlemihl" of Pynchon, Kinbote is the one character whose behavior -- misinterpreting patterns and meanings, recipient of slapstick endeavors, general ironic cluelessness -- is the quintessential Pynchonian schlemihl.  Shade has the good fortune of merely being misinterpreted; it's Kinbote's misinterpretations that fuel the narrative.

What do Pynchon and Nabokov seem to be saying about the needs/drives to interpret? to grant meaning?  to express language?

Does being a "schlemihl" serve a greater purpose in the works of these two novelists?

Does Pynchon seem to value "questioning" over "interpreting"??  Which does Nabokov seem to value most?

What is the value or signifiance of being a "schlemihl" for each of these writers?  Why?

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