Gelächter im Dunkel

The title itself hints at humor, but the novel's tone is quite somber. I wonder how Nabokov balances irony with tragedy throughout the narrative.

His choices become more destructive as the story progresses, which made me question how much of his downfall is inevitable or a reflection of society.

The art theme adds layers of deception and superficiality, but I'm curious whether Nabokov based this setting on personal experience or literary influences.