King, Queen, Knave by Vladimir Nabokov (Penguin Modern Classics)

Description

“King, Queen, Knave” is a novel written by the Russian-American author Vladimir Nabokov. It was originally published in Russian in 1928 and later translated into English by the author himself in 1968. The novel is one of Nabokov’s early works and showcases his distinctive style and wit.

The story revolves around a love triangle involving the characters Franz, Martha, and Dreyer. Franz, a young man from the provinces, moves to Berlin to work for his wealthy uncle Dreyer. There, he becomes entangled in a complex relationship with his uncle’s wife, Martha, and the trio’s interactions lead to a series of unexpected and often humorous events.

Nabokov’s narrative in “King, Queen, Knave” is characterized by intricate wordplay, psychological depth, and a playful approach to storytelling. The novel explores themes of love, desire, and the absurdity of human relationships. Nabokov’s use of language and his ability to create intricate and unconventional characters contribute to the novel’s unique charm.

While “King, Queen, Knave” may not be as well-known as some of Nabokov’s later works like “Lolita” or “Pale Fire,” it provides a glimpse into the author’s early literary style and thematic exploration. If you enjoy Nabokov’s distinctive prose and his exploration of the complexities of human relationships, you may find “King, Queen, Knave” to be an intriguing and engaging read.