Nabokov- Rhetorical Devices

Question #3

           Many rhetorical devices are used in Vladimir Nabokov’s essay, “Good Readers and Good Writers.” These add to the composition and act as a kind of bridge to help the reader understand the point that Nabokov is trying to make with his essay. First of all, Nabokov uses questions to get the reader thinking about the point of the essay, and makes a list of qualities that help the reader to understand even further. At one point in the writing, Vladimir Nabokov draws on a form of hyperbole. When describing the qualities that a reader should not have, he says, “Or, and this is the worst thing a reader can do, he identifies himself with a character in the book.” Identifying with a character is not necessarily the “worst thing a reader can do,” but the exaggeration makes an absolute point.

            One of the most notable forms of a rhetorical device that is found in the lecture “Good Readers and Good Writers” is a metaphor. Throughout the piece, Nabokov employs the use of metaphors to aid the reader’s understanding. For instance, he compares a work of literature to a painting. He tells us that we must reread literature, for it is only the second, third, or fourth time that we truly understand the artistry of the piece. Bluntly he states, “When we look at a painting we do not have to move our eyes in a special way even if, as in a book, the picture contains elements of depth and development.” Multiple metaphors are carried throughout the essay, adding to the reader’s understanding.

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