Gaston Godin's Friendship
LolitaDetails Humbert's chess-playing friendship with Gaston Godin in Beardsley.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
Bearing strength in each eventdecreasingMeeting Gaston
The Introduction
The Colleague
Humbert meets Gaston Godin, a French professor at Beardsley College. They share a love of chess and European culture.
The Friendship
Gaston becomes Humbert's regular chess partner. His presence provides Humbert with a semblance of normal social life.
The Safe Companion
Gaston is oblivious to Humbert's secret life, making him a safe confidant.
Chess Games and Conversations
The Ritual
The Games
Humbert and Gaston play chess twice a week. Gaston is a poor player, and Humbert often wins easily.
The Atmosphere
During games, Humbert can hear Lolita practicing dance steps downstairs. Gaston remains unaware of her presence.
The Bond
Their friendship is based on mutual intellectual pretense. Gaston is a closeted homosexual, and Humbert is a hidden predator.
Gaston's Departure
The End
The Trip
Gaston leaves for Europe, where he later gets involved in a scandal in Naples.
The Aftermath
Humbert loses his only local friend. Gaston's departure leaves him more isolated.
The Irony
Gaston, a pedophile himself, never suspected Humbert's true nature, highlighting the theme of hidden perversion.
Fall 1948, in Beardsley
Fall 1948 to Spring 1949, at Humbert's house
Summer 1949, to Europe
