"Laughter in the Dark" by Vladimir Nabokov tells the tragic story of Albinus, a middle-aged man who becomes infatuated with a young woman named Margot, leading to a series of misfortunes that unravel his life. The novel explores themes of obsession, manipulation, and downfall, with a narrative style that is described as a mix of humor, tragedy, and unique prose that keeps the reader engaged. Set in Berlin during the 1930s, the book delves into the complexities of relationships and the consequences of pursuing one's desires at any cost.

Characters:

The characters are largely unlikable, with Albinus being oblivious, Margot manipulative, and Rex Axel sadistic.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by its vivid, playful prose and dark humor, artfully crafted with detailed descriptions.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows Albinus, a wealthy man who abandons his family for a young mistress, ultimately leading to his downfall and disaster.

Setting:

Set in 1930s Berlin, the setting is richly described, encapsulating the environment and societal elements of the time.

Pacing:

The pacing shifts from deliberate to brisk, matching the plot's escalation and maintaining reader engagement.

Once upon a time there lived in Berlin, Germany, a man called Albinus. He was rich, respectable, happy; one day he abandoned his wife for the sake of a youthful mistress; he loved; was not loved; and ...

Notes:

Laughter in the Dark is considered a prototype for Nabokov's later masterpiece, Lolita.

The main character, Albinus, is a wealthy, middle-aged man who abandons his family for a young mistress named Margot.

Margot is only 16 or 17 years old and has ulterior motives, playing Albinus for money and connections.

The novel explores themes of moral blindness, both literally and figuratively, as Albinus ultimately becomes blind in an accident.

The book is noted for its sharp contrasts of humor and tragedy, creating a darkly comedic narrative.

Nabokov originally wrote the book in Russian, and he later translated it into English himself, expressing dissatisfaction with the initial translation.

The opening paragraph succinctly summarizes the tragic trajectory of Albinus's life in Berlin.

Albinus’s relationship with Margot leads to a series of personal losses, including his marriage and the death of his daughter.

The character Rex Axel is portrayed as a sadistic opportunist, further complicating Albinus's misfortunes.

The narrative style employs quick shifts in perspective, providing insight into multiple characters' thoughts and emotions.

Laughter in the Dark blends elements of dark comedy, tragedy, and absurdity, making it engaging and witty despite its somber themes.

Set in 1930s Berlin, the novel reflects on the societal and artistic dynamics of the era, involving film and art critique.

Margot's character is both captivating and morally ambiguous, inviting reader sympathy despite her duplicitous nature.

The writing style is described as 'limpid,' with rich, atmospheric descriptions of the settings in Berlin.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of infidelity, manipulation, sexual exploitation, and emotional distress.

Has Romance?

Romance is a significant and prominent element in the story, though it is interwoven with themes of betrayal and exploitation.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Albinus, a respectable, middle-aged man and aspiring filmmaker, abandons his wife for a lover half his age: Margot, who wants to become a movie star herself. When Albinus introduces her to Rex, an American movie producer, disaster ensues. What emerges is an elegantly sardonic and irresistibly ironic novel of desire, deceit, and deception, a curious romance set in the film world of Berlin in the 1930s.

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About the Author:

Vladimir Nabokov studied French and Russian literature at Trinity College, Cambridge, then lived in Berlin and Paris, writing prolifically in Russian under the pseudonym Sirin. In 1940, he left France for America, where he wrote some of his greatest works-Bend Sinister (1947), Lolita (1955), Pnin (1957),…

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