There is only one thing which can master the perplexed stuff of epic material into unity and that is, an ability to see in particular human experience some significant symbolism of mans general destiny. – Lascelles Abercrombie
[T]he cherub, alas, proved to be pasted on tough gingerbread which was too hard for many to bite into. – Vladimir Nabokov, The Gift, 1963, translated from Russian by Michael Scammell
