Vladimir Nabokov's "Speak, Memory" is a vivid tapestry of recollections, weaving together the threads of his early years, his intellectual pursuits, and the poignant experiences of exile. In the initial chapters, Nabokov explores the idyllic privilege of his childhood, while the middle sections delve into his fervent passions and formative encounters. The concluding chapters poignantly capture the essence of displacement and resilience as he navigates life as an émigré.

Chapters 1–5: An Evocation of Youth

In the opening chapters, Nabokov paints a portrait of his childhood filled with familial warmth and cultural richness. Much like Marcel Proust, he traverses the corridors of memory, seeking to reclaim moments suspended in the past. The narrative takes readers to a world shaped by aristocratic traditions and intellectual conversations in both French and English, reflective of a liberal-minded family that embraced constitutional reform.

Nabokov's early years unfold against the backdrop of the family estates in the province of St. Petersburg. Here, he was free to explore, enriched by the company of tutors and servants. His encounters with esteemed individuals—friends or relatives of his parents—add layers to his upbringing. Chapter five stands out with a vivid portrayal of Mademoiselle, the Swiss governess whose influence lingered. Her presence, marked with humor and guidance, offers a glimpse into the regimented yet vibrant life of a young boy under her care.

Chapters 6–12: Passions and Pursuits

The narrative shifts as Nabokov recounts his youthful adventures and the awakening of his passions during the tumult of World War I. Chapter six introduces his enduring interest in lepidopterology, the study of butterflies and moths, which becomes a lifelong fascination. This is juxtaposed with familial travels, such as a memorable stay in Biarritz in 1909, where he encounters a girl who would later adopt the name Colette.

Educational influences come to the fore in chapter eight, highlighting the diversity of his tutors and governesses. A heartfelt tribute to his father in chapter nine reveals a man of integrity caught in the turbulent crossfire of political ideologies. Nabokov’s school years at the Tenishev School coincide with significant historical shifts, setting the stage for his father's political struggles.

Chapter ten delves into Nabokov's literary awakening, sparked by adventure novels and his romantic yearnings for a girl named Polenka. As he matures, Nabokov’s passion for crafting literature—beginning with poetry in Russian—unfolds in chapter eleven. The section concludes with a nostalgic reflection on his wartime romance with Tamara, inspiring poetic tributes that resonate with yearning and melancholy.

Chapters 13–15: Exile and Resilience

The final chapters of "Speak, Memory" address the challenges of exile and adaptation in the wake of the Bolshevik Revolution. Awarded scholarships, Nabokov and his brother Sergey embrace academia at Cambridge University, marking a new chapter away from their native Russia. The narrative captures their immersion in English life, from literary studies to sports like tennis and soccer.

Subsequent chapters transport readers to the vibrant Russian émigré communities of Berlin and Paris. Nabokov's literary pursuits continue to flourish, intertwined with a newfound passion for chess—a reflection of his constant intellectual curiosity. The poignant final chapter follows Nabokov, alongside his wife Véra and son Dmitri, as they tread the paths of European cities, standing at the cusp of another geographical and cultural shift.

With the shadow of Nazi expansion looming, the Nabokovs prepare to leave Europe, embarking on a journey to America. This transition, while filled with uncertainty, heralds a period of creative and personal growth. Ultimately, their journey circles back to Europe, settling in Switzerland—a testament to their resilience and the enduring quest for a place to call home.