The Defense (novel)

"The Defense" is a novel by Vladimir Nabokov, originally published in 1930. It follows the story of a former chess champion, Luzhin, who becomes increasingly consumed by his obsession with the game. As he prepares for a critical tournament, he struggles with his mental health and the pressures of competition. The novel explores themes of genius, isolation, and the fine line between brilliance and madness. Nabokov’s rich prose and psychological insight create a complex portrait of a man defeated by his own intellect and the world around him, ultimately questioning the nature of reality and perception.