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#78 - What could Karl Popper have learned from Vladimir Nabokov? (w/ Brian Boyd)
Dec 10, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Brian Boyd, a leading expert on Karl Popper and Vladimir Nabokov, shares his insights into these two intellectual giants. He reveals how he discovered Nabokov and examines whether Nabokov had a philosophy. The conversation dives into Nabokov's dual life as a writer and scientist, questioning if he was merely a puzzle creator. Boyd also challenges the significance of an author’s intentions in literary interpretation, highlighting the fascinating interplay between their ideas and how they shaped each other.
01:00:39
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Quick takeaways
- Nabokov's childhood skepticism and love for nature influenced his complex literary themes, emphasizing the interplay between belief and storytelling.
- The contrasting styles of Nabokov and Popper highlight the potential for creativity and problem-solving to enrich both literature and philosophy.
Deep dives
Early Influences on Nabokov
Nabokov's early life was marked by formative experiences that shaped his views on belief and storytelling. At the age of five, he expressed skepticism about figures such as God and Santa Claus, prompting his nanny's startled reaction. This anecdote highlights Nabokov's precocious intellect and foreshadows his eventual literary exploration of complex themes. His childhood musings were also blended with a love for nature, particularly butterflies, which fueled his imagination and laid the groundwork for his future literary endeavors.
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