The Gift intricately explores the creative process, enveloping the reader in a mesmerizing array of Nabokovian structural and stylistic brilliance. This theme unfolds through two interwoven plot lines: the evolving relationship between Fyodor and Zina, and the maturing of Fyodor's artistic abilities, culminating in the creation of The Gift itself. The novel's structure epitomizes a circular journey, akin to the mythical serpent perpetually consuming its own tail, symbolizing the continuous cycle of creativity and inspiration.

The concept of the "gift" serves as a rich tapestry of meanings, central to which is the notion of Fyodor’s innate talent. Fyodor’s name itself, a Russian variant of Theodore, translates to "God’s gift," highlighting the intrinsic value of his abilities. Beyond personal talent, the "gift" also symbolizes the revered Russian literary heritage. Fyodor’s biography of his father and his critical exploration of Chernyshevsky are crafted under the influential legacies of Alexander Pushkin and Nikolai Gogol, the pioneering figures of modern Russian literature. The Gift, authored by Fyodor, and by extension Nabokov, thus stands as a distinctive contribution to this storied tradition, offering a provocative reevaluation of Russian cultural history.

The Gift intricately weaves a tapestry where art and the artist intersect, using the motif of keys as a recurring symbol to deepen the narrative’s thematic exploration. Keys in the novel are not just functional objects within the plot; they embody a broader symbolic resonance. For Fyodor, the protagonist, these keys represent his enduring connection to his native land despite his exile. This connection persists through the Russian language and cultural heritage he carries with him, signifying a metaphorical possession of his homeland’s essence.

The symbolic weight of the key extends further. In Russian, "key" (klyuch) is synonymous with "spring," evoking the Castalian Spring of Greek mythology—a source of artistic inspiration. This dual meaning enriches the narrative by linking the concept of keys with the wellspring of creativity, thus positioning Fyodor’s artistic journey as one of perpetual inspiration and renewal.

Nabokov’s narrative also cleverly intertwines the symbol of the key with the strategic world of chess, where "key moves" are pivotal. This connection is not coincidental—Fyodor, much like his creator Nabokov, draws parallels between the art of novel-writing and the meticulous plotting of chess problems. In this way, The Gift serves as both homage and playful parody of the traditional Russian realist novel, reflecting Nabokov’s deep affection for and nuanced critique of the literary tradition he both inherited and sought to transcend.