The Real Life of Sebastian Knight

Published in 1941, The Real Life of Sebastian Knight is Vladimir Nabokov’s first novel written in English. The narrative follows an unnamed protagonist on a quest to uncover the truth about the life and death of his half-brother, Sebastian Knight, a reclusive and enigmatic novelist.

Through the protagonist’s investigation, the reader navigates fragments of Sebastian’s personal relationships, his creative endeavors, and his elusive character. As he pieces together letters, interviews, and memories, the protagonist’s journey reveals as much about himself as it does about Sebastian. The novel becomes a meditation on identity, the elusiveness of truth, and the interpretive nature of biography.

Nabokov’s characteristic wit and brilliance are evident in this work, blending a compelling mystery with deep introspection and linguistic artistry.

Why Read This Book

• Metafictional elements: Explores the blurred lines between fiction and reality, offering a self-reflective literary experience.
• Intriguing mystery: The protagonist’s search for truth engages readers with its twists and intellectual depth.
• Psychological complexity: Delves into themes of identity, memory, and the unknowability of others.
• Early English masterpiece: Showcases Nabokov’s transition to English-language fiction and his extraordinary command of the language.
• Insightful commentary on art and biography: Raises questions about the ability to truly capture someone’s essence through storytelling.

About the Author

Vladimir Nabokov (1899–1977) was a Russian-American writer renowned for his innovative storytelling, rich prose, and inventive narrative structures. Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Nabokov fled his homeland after the Bolshevik Revolution and later settled in the United States. His body of work, spanning Russian and English, solidified his reputation as one of the 20th century’s literary giants.

Nabokov’s celebrated novels include Lolita, Pale Fire, and Speak, Memory. A polymath, he was also a distinguished lepidopterist. His works often explore themes of exile, identity, and the interplay between art and reality, leaving an enduring legacy in world literature.