Nabokov- Authority

Question #7

Vladimir Nabokov composed his essay “Good Readers and Good Writers” with the sole purpose of helping other people understand the correct mindset to have while reading. As the author of the essay, Nabokov has a certain authority that only he can have. With his wonderful power as a writer, he is able to direct the flow of the essay in the direction that he wants it to go. He holds sway over his reader’s thoughts and opinions, and uses this power to his great advantage. By using his authority to carefully choose the elements of his essay, Nabokov can drastically change the mindset of his readers.

Because Nabokov is a professor and a well rounded reader himself, he has the authority to preside over his readers in such a fashion. He has learned many things from personal experience, and wishes to pass on his knowledge to new readers. Nabokov uses many metaphors (such as a “castle of cards”), a beautifully logical organization, and a wonderfully personal tone to convey his message. By summarizing his experience into one thesis and expanding that one thesis into an essay, Nabokov creates an educational and yet personal piece to help those who have less experience than he does.

Nabokov, Vladimir. "Good Readers and Good Writers." Lecture